The Rotherham Gateway project has reached a significant milestone, securing 500 public pledges of support. To mark the occasion, Rt Hon John Healey MP – a long-standing advocate for the scheme – added his name to the growing list, underlining the strong community backing for this transformative rail initiative.
Launched in September by Rotherham Council, the pledge page at rotherhamgateway.co.uk offers residents, businesses, and community groups a platform to learn more about the project and register their support. The enthusiasm reflects the importance of reconnecting Rotherham to the mainline rail network for the first time since the 1980s.
The Gateway Station will deliver faster links to major cities including Sheffield, Leeds, and Birmingham, while opening up new regional and national routes. Complementing the existing Rotherham Central station, the scheme also includes plans for a new tram-train stop, providing quick and convenient local connections, including direct access to the town centre.
Beyond improved connectivity, the project represents a major economic opportunity. Forecasts suggest up to 1,000 local jobs will be created, with a further 8,000 roles across the South Yorkshire Investment Zone, driving an economic uplift of more than £100 million through employment and investment.
The Department for Transport is currently reviewing the Outline Business Case, following the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s approval of £11.35 million to progress to a Full Business Case. The ambition is to open the new station by the early 2030s.
Rt Hon John Healey MP, Member of Parliament for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough and Secretary of State for Defence, said:
“I am pleased to join the many residents and local businesses who believe in Rotherham’s potential.
Growth is at the heart of the government’s agenda, and the Gateway Station brings huge opportunity to the town to drive economic growth and bring much needed opportunities and investment into our region.
This is a project with strong local backing and clear economic benefits. I hope residents continue to support it so we can secure the improvements Rotherham deserves.”
Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, added:
“Rotherham Gateway will transform our rail connectivity and could be the single biggest thing we can do to lift the future prospects of Rotherham’s economy.”
Gateway Station will act as a foundation for Rotherham’s wider regeneration, attracting renewed investment, supporting new housing and creating opportunities for local businesses to thrive.
Beyond Rotherham, it will deliver lasting benefits for the region. Having seen the dedication, collaboration and hard work that has gone into making this project a reality, I’m delighted to see the support on the pledge page from so many local residents, businesses, community groups and politicians.”
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said:
“Rotherham Gateway isn’t just about improving transport, it’s about unlocking opportunity and ambition across South Yorkshire.
Rotherham has a proud history and a bold vision for the future. Gateway Station will help turn our vision into reality by connecting communities, attracting investment and creating the jobs and homes we need.”
Image credit: iStock
