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B Editor in chief Sarah Herbert sarah@3foxinternational.com Editor Julie Mackintosh julie@3foxinternational.com Deputy editor Kirsty MacAulay kirsty@3foxinternational.com Advertisement sales Lee Harrison lee@3foxinternational.com Production manager Sue Mapara sue@3foxinternational.com Designer Michael Booth Managing director Toby Fox toby@3foxinternational.com Printed by Trade Winds Images Barnsley Development Agency Published by 3Fox International Ltd Third Floor Lansdowne House 3-7 Northcote Road London SW11 1NG T: 020 7978 6840 F: 020 7978 6837 For Barnsley Development Agency PO Box 598 Barnsley S70 9EX www.barnsleydevelopmentagency.co.uk Marketing and communications co-ordinator Julie Morley Subscriptions and feedback Goto www.b4barnsley.com Š3Fox International Limited 2007.

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Feature

4 Barnsley A 21st century market town 12 Mapping the town What’s happening 15 Quality of life Why come to Barnsley?

21 Housing Making the town a home 26 Transport Creating a sense of arrival 29 Education School, college and beyond 34 Retail Going to market 42 Industry and commerce Getting down to business 47 Directory Find out who is transforming Barnsley ADVERTISERS:

Moorcroft/The 1249 Regeneration Partnership, Barnsley Development Agency, Lend Lease, White Space Communications, Priority Sites Limited, Oxford Innovation, Knight Frank, Guildhouse UK Limited, David White Associates.

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

Overview Feature By going back to its roots and rediscovering its role as a market town Barnsley is looking to the future.

Since the collapse of the mining industry it has struggled with high unemployment and low aspirations, but that is set to change with the influx of new businesses.

W

e can be an ex-mining town forever, we can stagnate and blame the world for our ills or we can rethink and move forward.” After almost two decades of post-industrial decline, this was the rallying cry from Barnsley Council leader Stephen Houghton back in 2001. And six years on, the South Yorkshire town is indeed moving forward. With a £400 million regeneration programme well under way, the vision is ambitious but simple and unique: to go from former mining

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

community to “the ultimate 21st-century market town”.

“The market town concept is rooted in our heritage so it’s a development path that people understand and accept,” explains Houghton. Barnsley received a royal charter to hold a market in 1249, and while today’s consumers are more likely to buy ipods than horseshoes, it’s been a mainstay of local life ever since. “But a 21st-century market town is about having more than just a market,” continues Houghton. “It’s about encouraging creativity, welcoming businesses, providing services and becoming an attractive destination.”

There is strong evidence of all of these themes in Barnsley’s mixed-use transformation with residential, commercial, cultural and civic developments now under construction.

In the town centre, seven projects are under way, of which five (the Transport Interchange, Digital Media Centre, Civic and Mandela Gardens, Westgate development and Queens Hotel) will be completed during 2007.

l The mixed-use Gateway Plaza, offering office, retail, residential accommodation and a 100-bed hotel l £235 million redesign of Barnsley Market and overhaul of the town’s retail offer l Civic and Mandela Gardens; an ambitious project delivering exhibition, event and performance space alongside specialist design and craft boutiques, and creative workshops l Transforming the Queens Hotel into stunning new offices l Barnsley Transport Interchange, providing a £24 million gateway to the town l Digital Media Centre offering incubation space for creative and digital industries l The council’s new offices at the £9.5 million Westgate development

barnsley’s £235 million redeveloped market will transform the town’s retail offer and turn barnsley into a 21st century market town

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Be part of something exciting Barnsley Development Agency offers a range of advice and assistance to businesses as well as community and voluntary groups – and is also delivering the exciting Remaking Barnsley urban regeneration programme.

Investment & Development supporting business

Grimethorpe Regeneration Executive creating opportunities

Social Enterprise Barnsley supporting communities

Remaking Barnsley supporting the future

For further details visit www.barnsleydevelopmentagency.co.uk

Overview

new markets (above) and town hall gardens (right)

“Our location is absolutely fundamental,” says Chris Wyatt, manager of Remaking Barnsley (part of Barnsley Development Agency) which, along with other partners and the local council, is coordinating the regeneration.

“The town is easily accessible to many other parts of the country through road, rail and air links. And our position, between Leeds and Sheffield, is helping to attract companies and jobs.”

The regeneration is creating modern accommodation for companies in the centre of Barnsley – something which was sorely lacking – through projects such as the Digital Media Centre, which is providing incubation space to start-up businesses in the creative industries, the redevelopment of the Queens Hotel into office space, the Westgate office complex and the high-quality commercial element at Gateway Plaza (see pages 44 to 49).

But it’s not all about business.

Market towns, traditionally a magnet for workers enjoying a well-earned day off, provide healthy doses of fun and culture as well. The new-look Barnsley Markets are certain to provide just that.

Not only will the market itself receive a new home and be updated to incorporate a wider and more eclectic range of stalls (think London’s Portobello Road market), retail units and a Debenhams department store will be added. The project – due for completion in 2011 – will also include a multiplex cinema, restaurants and bistros. The Civic will be the new venue for Barnsley’s Design

Centre, which displays exhibitions rarely shown anywhere else outside London. It will also provide space for events and performances as well as specialist craft shopping. (For more on retail and leisure see pages 38 to 43.)

Out of town While all of this construction is taking place within just half a square mile, in outlying areas a plethora of eagerly awaited business parks have also emerged. Again, Barnsley’s proximity to Leeds and Sheffield is crucial. As both cities have themselves embarked on regeneration programmes, commercial rental price rises have allowed a wellconnected nearby town like Barnsley to fill a gap in the market for competitively priced accommodation. In total, 2.3million sq m of new space has been created over the past four years at developments such as Capitol Park Barnsley, Zenith and Ashroyd Business Parks, to name just three of the numerous business parks in the vicinity.

And with office rents in the Barnsley area standing at around £12.50 per sq ft (compared with £15-£18 in Sheffield and around £23-£25 in Leeds) and industrial rents in Barnsley at £4 per sq ft (against £4.75 and £5 respectively) the savings are clear.

Abode Home Products, designer and distributor of kitchen taps, recently moved into a 700sq m unit at Zenith Business Park. “We chose Barnsley because it’s physically the centre of the

BDA Barnsley Development Agency (BDA), a part of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, consists of four specialist teams to ��� assist businesses and deliver the remaking Barnsley programme.

Investment & Development Offering existing Barnsley companies and businesses relocating to the area a friendly and professional service, free of charge.

Grimethorpe Regeneration Executive Helping to make Grimethorpe a better place to live and work by developing the local economy and helping businesses to flourish in the area.

Social Enterprise Barnsley Helping to develop and grow the social economy in Barnsley by providing support to voluntary and community groups.

Remaking Barnsley Redefining Barnsley to create a thriving and vibrant 21st-century market town.

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

the civic will be the new venue for barnsley’s design centre providing space for events and specialist craft shopping

Overview

Overview country so is great for distribution,” says director Darren Holliday. And Pit Stop Productions, an animation company, is moving into a 290sq m purpose-built office unit at Capitol Park Barnsley. It’s merging three office/studios in Leeds, Sheffield and Wakefield and will bring 15 full-time staff to Capitol Park.

The influx of new businesses is providing a huge boost to Barnsley’s employment landscape. The traditional industries, particularly mining, all but vanished during the 1980s. South Yorkshire is one of only four areas in the UK with EU Objective 1 status, an indication of just how challenging the town’s economic situation has been. But, as well as allowing up to 35% of start-up costs to be covered by public funds, Objective 1 funding has helped Barnsley Development Agency (BDA) to develop a fantastic network of support for businesses looking to locate in the area.

(For more see pages 44 to 49).

In business “In the past we had a dysfunctional investment and property market,” comments David Kennedy, executive director of development, Barnsley MBC, and deputy chief executive, BDA. “Now we are seeing speculative development.

With the new business parks, Barnsley is well located to provide back office, back-up and financial services to large companies in nearby cities. For me, the best moment of the regeneration programme so far was signing the development agreement for the Markets project. That injection of private capital, and what it says about an investor’s belief in the town, would have been unthinkable before.”

Objective 1 funding helped Barnsley Development Agency develop a fantastic network of support for businesses

All of which begs the question – why now? And what has changed since the turn of the millennium to allow Barnsley to make such strides?

Those in the know highlight several possible reasons. Back in 2002, Barnsley Council enlisted the services of architect Will Alsop to develop a regeneration masterplan. He famously described Barnsley as “a Tuscan hill town”, and while this interpretation raised certain eyebrows, external perceptions did begin to change. This shift in attitudes is incredibly important as Barnsley has suffered – and to some extent still does – from image issues.

As John Huston, chief executive of the Wetherspoons chain which opened a pub in Barnsley last year, comments: “A number of towns and cities across the UK have images that are outdated and Barnsley is a good example of this.

People have a perception of the town based on what it was like 20 years ago, but it’s moving on from that.”

And the council leader agrees: “In

Coming home to Grimethorpe Famous as the setting for the 2001 hit film “Brassed Off”, the nearby village of Grimethorpe is now home to much of the residential element of Barnsley’s regeneration. The first phase of 101 family homes is now complete and occupied. In total, Haslam Homes will construct more than 350 new houses over the coming years.

For much more on Barnsley’s new housing, see pages 25 to 29.

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

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Overview 2001 the time was right. Barnsley’s recent history has been traumatic. The mining industry collapsed so quickly that I think people, quite understandably, were wary of change.

But there was a recognition that the situation – low aspirations, poor education performance, low income and the benefit culture – couldn’t continue.”

New era BARNSLEY TRANSPORT interchange

barnsley Markets

Houghton believes the town has now entered a new, more positive social era that can only be boosted by the regeneration. He points to huge increases in GCSE pass rates from around 35% to 50% as evidence of just some of the progress that has been made. In 2005, Barnsley became a university town, with the opening of the University Centre Barnsley – part of Huddersfield University (for more on education see pages 33 to 36).

“Aspirations take a long time to change,” acknowledges Houghton, “and this is what we have to focus on.”

But although the community might have been initially sceptical, it has certainly been enthusiastic. “We have engaged in extensive consultation to discover people’s vision for the future of the town and the feedback has been

fantastic,” comments Houghton. Last year, more than 1,500 people attended an open weekend on the renovation of Barnsley Market. The planning application for the £235 million project – led by the 1249 Partnership – passed through the planning process without receiving one objection, virtually unheard of for a development of its size.

This possibly reflects another key factor that has contributed to the rapid pace of regeneration: strong political will at all levels, but especially within Barnsley Council. Houghton adds: “We know exactly where we want Barnsley to be and have made regeneration a priority. We are showing developers we are committed to cutting through red tape to make this happen. The success so far is a tribute to the team that is making it happen.”

To put it plainly, as Yorkshire folk are famed to do, this regeneration makes perfect sense. Barnsley is ideally located, the price is right, the political will is strong, demand exists, vacant land is available, developers are interested and the market town concept is innately appealing. The town’s motto is “Spectemur Agendo” – “let us be judged by our actions”. The verdict on Barnsley looks very positive indeed.

A (very) short history of Barnsley The first historical reference to Barnsley dates back to 1086 and the Doomsday Book, in which it is called ‘Berneslai’, with a total population of around 200.

The exact origins of the name Barnsley are still subject to debate, but Barnsley Council claims they lie in the Saxon word Berne, for barn or storehouse, and Lay, for field. In 1249, the town received a royal charter to hold a weekly market, which continues – albeit on an almost daily basis – today.

Generally unaffected by the civil war of the 17th century, Barnsley developed into a prosperous market town and profited from its position on the route between Leeds, Wakefield, Sheffield and London. A principal centre for linen weaving during the 18th and 19th centuries, Barnsley grew into an important manufacturing town. It also has a long tradition of glass-making, but is more commonly associated with the mining industry. Throughout the

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

centuries – until fairly recently – mining was the mainstay of the economy and the town’s employment base. In 1981, 24% of jobs were in the coal mining industry but twenty years later every mine had closed.

factfile Location: Barnsley sits on the River Dearne in South Yorkshire, adjacent to Junction 37 of the M1. It is 15 miles from Sheffield to the south and 21 miles from Leeds to the north.

Manchester can be reached in less than one hour.

Population: 218,000 of which 132,000 are of working age. There is an employment base of 1.3 million within 30 minutes drive time, rising to 4.5 million within 60 minutes.

Average house price: According to the Halifax Building Society, the average house price in Barnsley during the third quarter of 2006 was £123,142 (a six per

cent rise on 2005). It calculated the national average house price for the same period was £179,425.

Average salary: Annual average salary stood at £19,616 in 2005, according to the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings. The overall national figure was £22,888.

Most famous for: Traditionally for coal, although mining had died out by the end of the 1980s. Now more than 70 per cent of the working population is employed in the service industries.

Barnsley is the home town of TV chat show host Michael Parkinson, cricketer Darren Gough and Joanne Harris, author of the novel Chocolat.

Did you know? Barnsley man Joseph Bramah invented an early version of the flush toilet in 1778, as well as the beer pump.

Project manager for

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We employ over 250 specialist designers, engineers, development, program, project and commercial managers who operate out of seven offices across the UK – Harrow, London, Elstead (Surrey), Manchester, Bristol, Birmingham and Glasgow.

Their skills, ranging from master planning through to commissioning and owner occupation, are further enhanced by years of specialist sector experience.

Lend Lease Projects is not a generalist business, but focuses on a number of core sectors including regeneration, education, healthcare, commercial, retail, technology and transport.

At Lend Lease Projects, we believe that successful projects are delivered by drawing on our experience and skills and aligning them to the key objective of meeting our clients’ needs. We are accustomed to immersing ourselves in client organisations, adopting their culture and sharing their vision.

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Mapping the town what’s happening, where?

The town centre of Barnsley is set to be transformed over the next few years. And here’s how...

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

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for world-class, multi-award winning design who on earth comes to barnsley? they do: barclays gulf oil ronseal woolmark northgate department for education and skills department for work and pensions the fine bedding company barnsley development agency to name a few.

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Quality of life

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Barnsley’s Better It’s true what they say about Yorkshire; people are friendly, the countryside is breathtaking and easily accessible and house prices are lower than many less scenic places. And Barnsley’s at the heart of it with a safe environment and tremendous transport links.

beautiful countryside surrounds barnsley

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

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yorkshire sculpture park is just a short drive from barnsley and makes for a great day out with a programme of sculpture exhibitions

Quality of life

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Quality of life

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alk to almost anyone about daily life in Barnsley and one topic crops up over and over again.

“People are definitely friendlier here than in other parts of the country.

We have a community spirit that has been lost in many other places,” says a resident.

Sue Oldroyd, Parisian owner of fashion boutique Bichou, agrees: “The best thing about Barnsley is the people.

They are very friendly, even friendlier than in other parts of Yorkshire, and very loyal.” Barnsley “born and bred” Rita Britton, founder of Pollyanna, another well-known boutique, comments: “It definitely isn’t a fallacy – Barnsley is incredibly friendly. When I walk to the market or Marks & Spencer I give myself twice as long to stop for conversations and that’s not necessarily with people I know. You can start chatting to almost anyone – people are just very welcoming.”

And it would seem that Barnsley’s goodwill extends well beyond exchanging pleasantries with complete strangers. Crime statistics released by the Home Office for the year to April 2005 showed that robbery rates in Barnsley stood at just 0.1 per 1,000 of the population, 13 times less than the reported rate in the London region.

Overall, the town scored favourably in terms of safety and levels of crime.

Access all areas Barnsley has plenty of other attractions guaranteed to make you hop on the next train, plane or bus, or even into the car.

This South Yorkshire town is incredibly accessible to many parts of the country; the M1 is just one mile from its heart.

Leeds and Sheffield can be reached in 25 minutes, Manchester is less than one hour away, while journey times to London by train are as little as 90 minutes from nearby Doncaster. Five international airports are within an hour’s drive, as is Humberside International Port.

While catching planes or taking international ferry trips might not be part of the everyday routine for most people, it’s probably no surprise that – given its road and rail links – the region has among the lowest commuting times in the UK.

Staying put has its appeal too. No matter where you are in Barnsley breathtaking countryside is close by.

Picturesque villages dot the landscape, and 80% of the borough is green belt, while 12% actually lies within the Peak

District – Britain’s oldest and most popular national park. Covering 1,438sq km and with over 2,500km of public rights of way, the park offers a wide variety of walks to suit everyone.

For the more adventurous, the new 340km Trans Pennine Trail allows ramblers, cyclists and horse riders to journey between the North Sea and the Irish Sea. To the north, the Yorkshire Dales and Moors make for a fabulous day trip, as does the world famous Lake District.

Price is right As well as its location, Barnsley has other practical enticements. According to the Halifax Building Society, the average house price in the town during the third quarter of 2006 was £123,142 (a 6% rise from 2005). This is considerably lower than the estimated £138,268 average for the Yorkshire and Humber region, which itself is 50% cheaper than Greater London and 23% below the UK average of £179,425.

“Barnsley still offers reasonable value for money,” comments David Robinson, partner at Simon Blythe Estate Agents, based in the town. “There is a diverse mix of properties, from former miners’ terraces to more modern housing estates that emerged during the

1970s, right through to developments of detached homes built over the past 15 years.” He cites commutability to the cities of Leeds and Sheffield and quality of life as Barnsley’s chief attractions for home buyers: “The areas to the west of Barnsley, in particular, provide easy access to the M1 corridor, good schools and great scenery,” he says.

According to council leader Stephen Houghton, Barnsley is a fantastic place to raise a family. He points to the transformation of education in the borough, which will see every secondary school remodelled as a state-of-the-art “advanced learning centre” by 2011. It is among the first to embark on the government’s “Schools for the Future” programme with access to initial capital investment of £150 million. The advanced learning centres will set new standards in educational provision and become a focal point for the wider community.

Of course last, but by very no means least, there is the regeneration itself.

The new town will offer completely new retail and leisure facilities, alongside a new business community. With a wider variety of shops, a multi-screen cinema and an assortment of eating establishments, the final piece of the Barnsley jigsaw will fall into place.

My Barnsley Barnsley Council leader Stephen Houghton’s top three reasons to move to Barnsley

1 2

“It’s beautiful, 80% of Barnsley is green belt.”

“Barnsley’s a great place to raise a family and the educational facilities are going to be astonishing.”

elsecar heritage centre

3

“Location. Close to Sheffield, Leeds, and Manchester, the attractions of some of the UK’s best cities are within easy reach.

The UK’s most fantastic countryside is also nearby, in the Peak District and the Yorkshire Moors, while the Lake District is just two hours away.”

cannon hall

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

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Quality of life

Nine great days out 1 Wentworth Castle Gardens Home to the former Earls of Strafford, the estate extends to 246 hectares and is the only Grade I listed landscape in South Yorkshire. It features the national plant collections of magnolias, rhododendrons and camellias.

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2 Cannon Hall Museum Park and Gardens Set in more than 28 hectares of parkland, Cannon Hall museum houses fine collections of pottery, furniture, glass and paintings as well as the 13th/ 18th Royal Hussars museum.

3 Cannon Hall Farm Sure to delight the younger members of the family, this is a year-round working farm where visitors can feed the animals, have fun on the adventure playground and enjoy delicious cakes in the tea room.

4 Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield Set in a 205ha 18th-century country estate, the gallery has a changing programme of international sculpture exhibitions.

5 Elsecar Heritage Centre Within the former ironworks and colliery workshops of the Earls Fitzwilliam, visitors can explore the attractively restored buildings and monuments, antiques centre, craft shop, Victorian classroom, heritage railway and living history centre.

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journey that heads 135 metresďż˝ underground and 200 years back into history.

7 RSPB Dearne Valley

6 The National Coal Mining Museum for England, Wakefield

Offering the chance to explore wildlife all year long, the birdlife centre has a programme of events specifically geared for families.

Experience everyday working life at the Caphouse Colliery by embarking on a

8 Magna Centre, Rotherham

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The interactive centre is dedicated to the four natural elements of air, water, fire and earth. Adventure is guaranteed – from experiencing fire tornados to shifting earth with JCBs.

9 Trans Pennine Trail This 340km route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders links the North Sea and Irish Sea. Not something to attempt in one day perhaps, but the dramatic scenery can be appreciated in sections! underground and 200 years back into

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

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Housing

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Barnsley has a home for all, from period ex-mining cottages, to spanking new developments in the picturesque outlying villages. You can even live in a swish town centre apartment...

Haslam homes, Grimethorpe

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

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Housing

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alue for money, choice, the beautiful nearby countryside, and easy access to Leeds and Sheffield are among Barnsley’s chief attractions to homebuyers, says David Robinson, partner at Simon Blythe Estate Agents. The town’s £400 million regeneration plan can only add to this appeal, as schools are transformed, the retail and leisure offer is improved and updated, and more businesses move in.

Andrew Cooper of Merryweathers Estate Agents agrees. “The negative stereotypical image of Barnsley has long gone. This is an up-and-coming town, but still offers affordable housing. From a logistical point of view, we are very centrally located, but there is also some beautiful countryside on our doorstep. I believe all of these factors will see the housing market continue to grow over the next year.”

Hot property At the moment, the average home in Barnsley would set you back just over £123,000 (according to Halifax Building Society), significantly lower than the UK average of almost £180,000 and the Yorkshire and Humber regional figure of more than £138,000. From farmhouses and manors in idyllic outlying villages and former miners’ terraces closer to town, to more modern housing estates and developments of detached homes

This is an up-andcoming town, but still offers affordable housing. We are very centrally located...

designed with commutability in mind, Barnsley and its surrounding area boasts a diverse range of properties.

Modern town centre living is one element of the residential spectrum, however, not on offer at the moment.

“This will be a crucial component of Barnsley’s regeneration, introducing new vitality and providing activity beyond normal working hours in the town,” says Barnsley Council leader Stephen Houghton.

“Town centre living is uncharted waters here,” admits Tony Baker, director of Ashcroft Estates, part of the 1249 Partnership transforming the markets, retail and leisure offer in the town. Its ambitious £235 million scheme will also include more than 100 one-

House prices The average house price in Barnsley at the end of 2006 was £123,142. How does it compare with the rest of Yorkshire and the Humber region?

Source: Halifax Building Society

Hull Bradford Doncaster Sheffield Huddersfield Leeds Wakefield York

£116,000 £120,875 £133,013 £144,585 £147,048 £154,540 £157,069 £190,105 the average house price is £123,142

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

Be part of

gateway plaza mixed-use office, residential, retail and leisure complex. the ÂŁ70 million development will include up to 300 something exciting Barnsley apartments.

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GRIMETHORPE’S NEW HOUSING

The Grimethorpe story G rimethorpe, like many villages in the region, relied almost entirely on coal mining to support its economy. Prior to the regeneration programme that began in 1999 (around the time it was named the poorest village in Britain by the EU), about 6,000 jobs had been lost, against a population of around just 4,000. “Grimethorpe was hit particularly hard by the closure of its pit,” says Jeremy Dexter of the Grimethorpe Regeneration Executive, “but the place has been transformed in recent years.”

The village was immortalised in the British film Brassed Off, the tale of a colliery brass band struggling to survive in the thinly disguised ‘Grimley’. Thankfully, life has moved on in the decade that has since

passed. Regeneration work began with remediation of former mining land and the preparation of vacant sites for development. Crucially, Grimethorpe’s connections to the surrounding region were vastly improved by a new road linking it to Doncaster, the A1 and the Dearne Valley towns, as well as to Barnsley.

Alongside the new housing that has revitalised the community, a new 68ha business park, Park Springs, has been created between Grimethorpe and nearby Houghton. This development land, 92% of which has been sold, is expected to generate 1,300 jobs by the end of 2007.

Advisers are working with local people to take advantage of training and employment opportunities.

and two-bedroom apartments over seven floors, ready for occupation during 2011.

“Over time the feel of the town centre will change,” says Baker. “Building a residential community is about more than just one project. Personally, I see this in the context of the entire regeneration programme, although, the markets, retail and leisure development will act as an important catalyst.”

Arguably it already has. And if Gateway Plaza’s experiences are anything to go by, Barnsley is set to embrace town centre living with gusto.

The 13-storey office, residential, retail and leisure complex by local developer Quest Property is likely to feature up to around 300 one- and two-bedroom apartments. Offering 188 homes, phase one will be ready for occupation next year. Residents of the £70 million scheme will be able to take advantage of 1,900sq m of retail and leisure space arranged around a stunning central plaza. The prospect of living in the centre of Barnsley obviously appeals: 80 flats (with prices starting from £75,000) have already been sold off-plan.

Live central Quest’s property development manager Matthew Stephens says that buyers have been predominantly local, some looking to live at Gateway Plaza themselves, with others making an investment.

“There has never been anything like this in Barnsley,” he says. “The contemporary design, high specifications and great views are the features that have most attracted people.”

Taking the road to Grimethorpe

barn conversion, penistone

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

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Housing

I think quality and affordability is what attracted people to our first homes at Grimethorpe

Apartments come with integrated kitchen appliances, en-suite bathrooms, laminate flooring in living areas and carpet in bedrooms. Gateway Plaza will have a video entry phone system as well as broadband and communal satellite television systema.

Merryweather’s Andrew Cooper believes that young professionals, particularly, will be attracted to the lifestyle offered by developments like this. “Apartment blocks in or close to the town centre were unheard of until recently, and restricted to cities like Leeds or Sheffield,” he comments. “But developers are realising that these properties will also be popular in an increasingly cosmopolitan town such as Barnsley.”

Meanwhile, in the nearby former mining village of Grimethorpe, Haslam Homes is leading something of a residential revolution. More than 350 new family houses are at various stages of completion, with the first 101-unit phase, Allegro Court, now fully occupied.

Vanessa Burling, regional sales manager, says residents of the 34, twoto-four bedroom houses and bungalows in phase two, Cudworth View, began moving in during December 2006.

Ranging from around £108,000 to £148,000, the homes will have special ‘eco-friendly’ features including combi boilers, recycling bins, shed and bike holders, rotary airers, water butts and outside front and rear security lights.

Haslam is delighted with the

response to its Grimethorpe homes: “It’s been absolutely fantastic,” says Burling.

More than half of Haslam’s customers have been first-time buyers, with 60% in the 20-to-40 age range. “One of the most pleasing aspects of the regeneration is the number of young first-time-buyers who have been attracted into Grimethorpe. This can only benefit the community,” says Stephen Houghton.

It’s also an indication of the progress that has been made here that 57% have moved within the Barnsley borough, with 20% of those returning to Grimethorpe.

So has the village shed its deprived post industrial image? “Without a doubt.

It has improved a thousand times,” says Cooper, citing the negative attention that Grimethorpe attracted from the national press back in the early 1990s when a terraced house reportedly sold at auction for under £1,000.

Construction is now under way on Haslam’s final phase of housing, The Village, which will offer 226 new homes.

“I think quality and affordability is what attracted people to our first homes at Grimethorpe,” says Burling. “But now that residents have moved in and a new community is emerging, it’s clear that the whole area has been uplifted.”

Back on the map Also in Grimethorpe, South Yorkshire based housebuilder Ben Bailey is constructing 77 two-, three- and fourbedroom homes on the 2.4ha site of

Chestnut Park. More than 50 are now complete and occupied.

Around Grimethorpe work is ongoing to improve the connections between existing and new housing. On the high street, pavements have been improved, new walls, fences and gates fitted and improved street lighting installed. On top of the environmental work, a new community hall and fitness centre is expected to be completed in June 2007.

Construction of the Dearne Towns Link Road connecting Grimethorpe to the A1 and Dearne Valley towns has opened up a whole host of opportunities, most notably the development of Park Springs business park (see box). All these developments show that the village, which suffered badly after the closure of its colliery, has entered a new era.

Other villages in the Barnsley borough are also thriving.

Approximately three miles from the town centre, Silkstone and Silkstone Common offer all the benefits of village life, with a diverse housing offer, combined with an excellent location just one-and-a-half miles from the M1.

Similarly, the bustling market town of Penistone provides a fantastic quality of life within the stunning scenery of the Peak District, yet enjoys good commuting access to Barnsley, Sheffield and Manchester.

It seems that from Grimethorpe’s new housing to town centre apartment living, Barnsley has a home for all..

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

Transport

B

ehind Barnsley’s bustling train station – separated from the midweek shoppers by giant placards displaying images of other Remaking Barnsley projects under construction – Laing O’Rourke’s builders are hard at work.

With its full-length glass façade, the concourse above platform two is the perfect vantage point to appreciate what the pedestrians on Kendray Street cannot – the deceptively large space allocated for the town’s new Transport Interchange.

This summer, South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive’s colourful, curved £24 million complex will open, combining bus, rail, coach and taxi travel and outstanding passenger facilities alongside six retail units, a café, 80 park-and-ride spaces and an information centre. The 24-stand bus concourse is conceived as a ‘glazed street’ occupying the ground level of the interchange. The upper level features the commercial units, designed as ‘pod’-like spaces to create a lively street frontage, while a pedestrian bridge will link the exchange directly to the existing railway station. A new road will be built to the east of the town centre to divert traffic away from the level crossing on Kendray Street, to ease congestion and allow an increased rail service to pass through Barnsley Station.

Transports and delight

First impressions count. Anyone arriving at Barnsley’s new £multi-million state-of-the-art Transport Interchange will be left in no doubt that the regeneration of the town has begun.

“This is about selling public transport as an alternative to the car and giving it a progressive image,” explains Tom Rhys Jones of architect Jefferson Sheard, a practice experienced in creating transport hubs. “The building is designed to the same standards as a high-quality retail environment to be a place that people want to, rather than just have to, spend time.”

The building itself is technically challenging, combining a complicated curved shape, varying levels and vast amounts of exposed steel. Structural engineer Arup worked alongside Jefferson Sheard and Barnsley-based steelwork contractor Billington Structures to develop a 3-D model for the building. “The geometry is extremely complex and could only have been achieved with the aid of computer design,” says Glyn Bassindale of Billington Structures.

Apparently it took 11 months to draw

Transport

27

south yorkshire passenger transport executive’s Transport interchange

and five months to actually set out the 3-D model.

But as Rhys Jones is quick to point out, the striking and complicated design of the Transport Interchange isn’t purely for aesthetic purposes.

“The footprint of the building, and consequently its shape, is constrained by the surrounding area as well as the need to accommodate the swept path of the buses,” he says. “We didn’t want the Interchange to be impenetrable from any side: there are lots of entrances linking it to the many nearby shopping streets. And the curves of the building aren’t just for effect either; the rounded edges increase public safety by preventing the dark corners and corridors that would result from other shapes of design.”

Inevitably, as one of the first elements of Barnsley’s regeneration to

The bigger picture Barnsley’s central location is just one of its many assets. As befits its position between the cities of Leeds and Sheffield, the town’s transport network is fantastic. By road, the M1 is just over a mile from its heart, and there are frequent rail services to Sheffield, Wakefield and Doncaster, from where London can be reached in 90 minutes. Five international airports are within an hour’s drive: Manchester International, Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield, Leeds Bradford, Nottingham East Midlands and Humberside. In addition, Humberside International Port is also just 60 minutes away with worldwide sailings now available.

be completed, the Transport Interchange will be viewed as a statement of intent for future development. “It has taken on a symbolic importance,” admits Rhys Jones. And it’s not just about getting there. As Rhys Jones observes, the Transport Interchange will also be the last place in Barnsley that many people will see and experience.

“I’m very pleased with the construction progress,” says David Whittle, centre manager at the existing transport hub. “The public have been consulted throughout the process and the feedback is positive, especially now that the new building is almost complete.”

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

OI B mag

12/2/07

9:50 am

Page 1

Oxford Innovation is delighted to have been appointed as managers of the state-of-the-art Barnsley Digital Media Centre

motivate

discover

challenge

Oxford Innovation is the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading operator of Innovation Centres, providing premises and support in 14 locations for over 400 technology and knowledge-based businesses. We are also a specialist in helping early stage technology businesses raise finance through our business angel investment networks.

We are proud to be part of SQW Group, who also own SQW Consulting, one of the leading UK providers of public policy consultancy for economic development and regeneration. SQW worked with Barnsley Development Agency and local businesses to develop an economic strategy for Barnsley District.

For further details on the DMC call 0114 254 1207 or visit www.barnsleydmc.co.uk

or call Oxford Innovation on 01865 811127 www.oxin.co.uk

Education

29

New schools and higher education facilities are fundamental to Barnsley’s vision of the future, providing a skilled employment base and encouraging movement to the area.

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university centre barnsley a campus of the university of huddersfield

he links between education and successful regeneration are strong. Good schools arguably increase the appeal of an area more than any other single contributing factor, while colleges and universities improve its social and economic profile.

With these thoughts – and a desire to build on recently improved academic results – in mind, Barnsley is transforming its education portfolio. The borough’s secondary schools are being rebuilt, 21st century style, further education is expanding and the town is capitalising on its recently acquired university status.

One of the first questions asked by families moving into an area is: “How good are the schools?” At the moment, Barnsley’s report card would read “exceptional progress has been made though the pupil is determined to perform even better”. It’s a diagnosis that council leader Stephen Houghton is well aware of: “Education is at the top of our agenda. Low aspirations have been a problem, which is not uncommon in societies with a history of one dominant employer. But things are changing.

During the past five years the improvement has been phenomenal, with GCSE pass rates rising from around 35% to 50%. We aim to build on that.” (See overleaf for full details of Barnsley’s exam pass rate.)

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

30

Education

Barnsley’s impressive report card l In 2001 Barnsley’s GCSE A-C pass rates were 15% below the national average. However by 2006 the gap had been narrowed to 9%. In 2006, 50% of pupils attending a Barnsley school achieved five or more A*-C GCSE (or equivalent) passes, compared with the national figure of 59%.

Increases in standards have been particularly marked during the past two years with a 9.2% performance jump for Barnsley compared with a 5.3% rise nationally. l The new Advanced Learning Centres (ALCs) in Barnsley, with enhanced facilities and embedded changes in the culture of learning, are expected to help gain further improved attainment levels in the future. l University Centre Barnsley offers degrees in the following faculties: Art and Design Business Computing Education and Training Human and Health Sciences Media and Humanities Music Did you know?

Legendary music producer Pete Waterman presented Barnsley College students with their awards at last year’s graduation.

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

barnsley college’s new sci-tech building

Over the coming years an enquiry into the calibre of schools in Barnsley is likely to gain a very favourable response indeed. The borough is among the first to embark on the government’s “Schools for the Future” programme with access to initial capital investment of £150 million. Barnsley’s 14 secondary schools will be merged into nine newly built “Advanced Learning Centres” (ALCs), boasting state-of-the-art facilities, with an emphasis on IT and sport. They will also become a focal point for the wider community, welcoming post-16 and adult learners as well as offering use of their leisure amenities to everyone.

“The opportunity to rebuild Barnsley’s secondary schools is very exciting. The condition and suitability of the current physical stock means we can no longer offer the variety of learning arrangements needed,” says Schools for the Future programme director Steve Mair. “There are always concerns over how a project of this scale will work in practice. However, the response from the public, including community and voluntary groups, has been very positive.”

Construction is due to begin on the first ALC next year with all nine ALCs set for completion by 2011. An OJEU notice was posted in January with shortlisted bidders due to be selected before the summer.

“Twin, interconnected strands of Remaking Barnsley and Remaking Learning are both vitally important,” says Mair. “ALCs with higher levels of achievement will both benefit companies

locating in the borough through the workforce available and increase the attractiveness of the town to prospective employees with families.

“A crucial aspect of our proposals is to link vocational teaching to local employers. This will allow ALCs to have a direct impact on, as well as being able to use, local business and commerce.

Students will have the opportunity to develop workplace skills while members of the community can build on their knowledge using ALC facilities.”

Further education Barnsley College is one of the country’s largest further education establishments and the major provider of post-16 learning in the borough with seven sites located in and around the town centre.

It offers 6,000 students a range of courses from pre-entry level right through to level 7 qualifications including an extensive AS and A level offer, vocational courses and apprenticeships.

“We see ourselves very much as a corridor between the worlds of education and work,” says Barnsley College principal Paula Whittle, who explains that her team consults closely with employers when structuring vocational courses. To this end, Barnsley College has its own restaurant managed by catering students, a hair and beauty salon, and travel agency staffed by tourism students while, for those studying horticulture and animal care, it even has its very own farm.

The university centre barnsley is the boroughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main provider of higher education

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Education

barnsley college has seven town centre sites

Barnsley College ����������� is very much part of the town’s regeneration, both as an educational establishment and employer

Local firms looking to build their employees’ skills base can take advantage of Barnsley College’s Business Solutions Centre. “Our goal is to meet their training and development needs at a time, place and cost to suit them,” says Whittle. “The Business Solutions Centre offers a broad range of choices to companies, from governmentsponsored initiatives such as apprenticeships to tailor-made commercial training. Just tell us what you want and we’ll provide it.

“����������������������������������� Barnsley C������������������������� ollege is very much part of the town’s regeneration, both as an educational establishment and one of the town’s largest employers,” she continues.

Higher education The recent introduction of higher education is another development certain to transform how learning is perceived here. In May 2005, Barnsley’s regenerators realised a long held ambition when former home secretary David Blunkett opened the University Centre Barnsley (UCB), a campus of Huddersfield University.

UCB offers full-time and part-time study, including degrees and specialist postgraduate and professional courses.

“Gaining university status has been

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

extremely important, as it provides the local community with the chance to study at a higher educational level,” says Dr Cathy Doggett, head of UCB. “In the past, opportunities may not have been as varied, we aim to ensure that a university education is accessible to all.”

The former Mining Technical College on Church Street, which first opened more than 70 years ago, is now home to the UCB. Following a £5.5 million refurbishment, jointly financed by the Higher Education Funding Council for England and Wales (HEFCE), Yorkshire Forward and Objective 1 provision, the restored 1930s facade of this well-loved Barnsley landmark now belies a truly 21st century interior.

“We’re really pleased with the refurbishment,” comments Doggett. The campus boasts a new learning resource centre, industry-standard television, radio and recording studios, an art studio and advanced IT infrastructure.

Its impressive facilities could be just one of the reasons the number of applications for degrees, certificates and diploma courses rose by more than 30% between its first and second academic years, while the numbers of applicants confirming it as their preferred option for study jumped by over 100%.

Brain gain All of which is good news for Barnsley itself. Universities, students and academics bring vitality to a town, making it instantly more appealing to businesses, and help to boost its leisure offer – one of the regeneration’s key goals. “Graduates provide a highly skilled workforce to the area in which they settle,” says Doggett. “As many of our students are local they continue to live and work here after they graduate and this group is likely to generate a high number of business start-ups.”

The positive impact of the university is likely to grow along with its student numbers. “We have many goals for the coming years,” reveals Doggett. “Our main target is to have 1,000 full-time students by 2010 and 2,000 by 2015. We have already taken large steps to reach these targets, especially with the curriculum. The subject areas and courses that we offer have doubled over the last year. We have considered what local students want to study and also what businesses want from our graduates.”

34

barnsleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrant market

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

the transformation of the 700-year-old market will provide an

Retail

35

What makes a good town into a great town? Vibrant public realm, high-quality interesting retail, an appealing leisure offer, a great atmosphere and that certain je ne sais quoi

B

eclectic range of shopping

arnsley is planning them in abundance. In June last year, the 1249 Partnership, a joint venture between Ashcroft Estates, the Guildhouse Group and Wilson Bowden, signed a £235 million development agreement with Barnsley Council and Yorkshire Forward to create a new retail and leisure offer in the town.

“This is the biggest single investment the borough has ever had,” said council leader Stephen Houghton when the deal was finalised, and he is still just as keen to stress its significance. “This level of financial commitment from the private sector is a ringing endorsement – as well as the linchpin – of Barnsley’s aspiration to become the 21st century market town.”

Tony Baker, director of Ashcroft Estates certainly thinks it holds the potential to do just that. “In terms of the demographics, and particularly in the context of the overall regeneration, this development makes perfect sense.

People want to shop and spend time in Barnsley but it presently lacks the variety and quality of experience they are looking for,” he says.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the transformation of the town’s 700-yearold market into a unique shopping

experience is at the heart of the South Yorkshire borough’s entire redevelopment proposals. Its transformation – designed in collaboration between Piers Gough of CZWG and Peter Mathias at Holder Mathias – will revolutionise Barnsley’s town centre and its character as a destination.

Covered by a 132m curving glazed roof (a landmark in its own right), the outdoor stall area will sell a diverse range of products. Beside it, a threelevel indoor area will offer a wide variety of food produce, from meat and fish on the lower ground floor and fruit, vegetables and flowers on the ground, with cafes and restaurants on the top floor perfectly placed to survey the activity below.

Market leader The market will certainly provide an eclectic offer. Located between the well established shopping cities of Leeds and Sheffield, it’s important that Barnsley turns itself into an enticing destination that offers something a little bit different. But aside from the great products on offer, the innate appeal carried by a well-run market is likely to draw visitors from far and wide. London

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

Advertisement feature

Guildhouse...helping to remake Barnsley

Guildhouse is joint developer of the £200 million Barnsley Markets retail and mixed use development scheme with Project Management being provided by Tropus, another member of the Guildhouse Group.

Guildhouse

Tropus

Property Developers…Partners with the Public Sector…PPP Investors

Project Management and Cost Consultants

Guildhouse is a property development, management and investment organisation with a current net asset value in excess of £25 million and a successful track record of private and public sector developments.

Particularly active in mixed-use regeneration schemes, Guildhouse undertakes a wide variety of projects, of different size and scope, across a range of sectors including commercial, retail, healthcare, leisure, residential, and police facilities.

The total team approach that Guildhouse delivers with investment, company management, project management, quantity surveying and facilities management provided by one organisation – ensures a highly efficient and seamless service.

“The target is to reach £100m within the next four years”

R

With a strong reputation for innovation, Guildhouse are known for their integrated approach and long term commitment to projects. In seeking ways of combining different services and initiatives, Guildhouse bring benefit to communities through sharing facilities and costs across different public sector services and with associated private sector developments. In this way, working on behalf of the public sector opens up development

opportunities which offer both commercial and community benefit.

David Hudson, Guildhouse Chief Executive comments: “We have experienced considerable growth since we first established the business in 1999 and are now set for significant further growth. The target is to reach £100m within the next four years”.

In all their Public/Private Partnership projects, Guildhouse is a substantial long-term equity investor and places a strong emphasis on collaboration and on bringing all stakeholders together. Management involvement at senior level and financial commitment has ensured a successful track record of clear decision making, rapid financial closure of deals and delivery on commitments made.

Guildhouse currently own and operate three PFI projects. In addition they are the Norfolk LIFT partner with a 20 year partnering agreement to improve and extend the county’s Primary Healthcare infrastructure. Partnerships for Health described Norfolk LIFT as “an example of best practice in building public private partnerships”.

They are also preferred partners for the South East Midlands LIFT.

Tropus are responsible for the project management of the Barnsley Market scheme. The development will be undertaken on a congested city centre site, with the whole programme pivoting around the requirement to maintain the market trading at all times. The new Markets facility will be provided before the existing accommodation is demolished to make way for the remainder of the development.

“Our focus is to turn Barnsley’s vision into reality”.

Francis McPeake, Director of Tropus, comments: “Our focus is to turn Barnsley’s vision into reality and to deliver a high quality scheme that meets both the challenges of phasing and the aspirations of the architectural concept.”

As part of the Guildhouse Group, Tropus are able to bring unique commercial understanding and insight into client priorities and requirements.

“an example of best practice in building public private partnerships”

Relocating and redeveloping Barnsley Markets in the town centre The Market, which is the great draw and heart of the town and fundamental to the long term success of its regeneration, lies at the heart of the development, ensuring its continuity as a vibrant and successful operation.

roof to this external market will also provide an external entertainment venue. This will be complemented with a major retail area, consisting of covered three storey streetscapes, which are weatherproof but with an outdoor feel.

The scheme includes a state of the art, 21st Century market building, based on the theme of a ‘casbah’, with an indoor market area on three interlinked levels and a covered external market. The dramatic, curving glazed

A multi screen cinema, large amphitheatre for events and 110 apartment residential complex will extend the usage outside normal shopping hours. The scheme will be supported by a new 1,200 space multi storey car park.

Tropus Projects Top: Yes! Rotherham Bottom: The Brunswick Centre, London Left: Riven & Inver Courts, London

Guildhouse Projects Top Left: Nottingham Police Authority Operational Headquarters Top Right: Daisybank Villas, Manchester Bottom Left: Willesden Centre for Health & Care, London

Guildhouse Group 232 Vauxhall Bridge Road London SW1V 1AU Tel: 020 7233 9600 Fax: 020 7233 9300 www.gldhse.com

38

Retail

cafe culture in barnsley

alone holds many fantastic examples such as Camden, Greenwich and Spitalfields markets.

The vitality, and aforementioned je ne sais quoi, they give to an area is an immeasurable boost to any regeneration scheme. “There is a touchy feely appeal to markets that satisfies people’s desire for more intimate and individual retail experiences than can be found on the high street,” says Baker. “I believe it will draw people in from far and near.”

Centre point

barnsley’s arcade

There is a touchy feely appeal to markets that satisfies people’s desire for more intimate retail experiences designer shopping in barnsley

Barnsley Be part of something exciting

The public realm will also be boosted by a large amphitheatre, also under the glazed roof, acting as a focal point as well as a venue for year-round performances and other events.

In addition, the 1249 Partnership is replacing Barnsley’s Metropolitan Shopping Centre with approximately 45,000sq m of new retail space This will be located in three newly created covered streets integrated into the town’s existing street pattern.

Debenhams has already signed up to provide a flagship department store and Baker confirms that discussions are under way with a number of highquality retailers.

It’s important that Barnsley develops this modern floor space to attract more of the nation’s favourite retailers not currently present in the town. At the moment, there are numerous bargain basement stores, a legacy of the town’s once proud slogan “Barnsley for Bargains”. This was one of the findings of a 2003 report by consultant Donaldsons. Commissioned

by Barnsley Council to review the borough’s retail offer, the survey

0003 David White Editorial alts 2

15/2/07

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Renaissance in Barnsley...

There is a tangible vibrancy in the way Barnsley is moving forward with its far-reaching residential, commercial and cultural strategies. Its forward-thinking plans to become an outstanding urban and rural environment have been described as “Remaking Barnsley” in order to build a beautiful town.

Here David White, director of quantity surveying and project management specialists David White Associates, talks about the excitement for those involved in a project of this magnitude, and the ultimate satisfaction in seeing innovation demonstrated, and the principles of synergy and best practice at work.

Regeneration is always a challenge and Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council has committed itself to renewal on a huge scale. Its redevelopment plans involve numerous developments within the community to encompass everyone living, working and relaxing within its environs. This project, culminating as it will in the rebirth of Barnsley, is to be applauded.

David White Associates are very pleased to be involved in Barnsley MBC's regeneration through providing project management services, delivering

the Education Authority for the provision of agreeing valuation at risk assessment on Willowgarth High School in Barnsley, and providing pre- and post-contract quantity surveying services on Millhouse Primary School at Millhouse Green.

On housing, we have been working on the Decent Homes programme. This represents an investment throughout the Borough of around £118 million.

The fact that there are many different agencies involved in the programme serves to show how adept Barnsley MBC is at working with third parties. It is a pioneer of the radical approach of instilling good project management techniques through the implementation of “The New Engineering Contract” and the “Option C Target Contract with Activity Schedule” as published by The Institution of Civil Engineers.

the Mandela Gardens. This Grade 2 listed structure and many of its original features will be preserved and enhanced with new extensions, ensuring the Victorian building is transformed into a vibrant centre with three floors of design and craft shops, an event centre and an exhibition area. When completed, the new Civic and Mandela Gardens will surely prove to be a positive central asset for the region's residents, as well as a magnet drawing visitors.

David White Associates deliver independent, dynamic consultancy experience on a best practice basis that counts, and with the committed determination to add 'best value' to every commission undertaken. This demonstrable ethos was an instrumental element in this appointment.

“We liaise closely with our client to provide full and continuous support in partnered relationships to ensure targets are met.” innovative procurement solutions and utilising our quantity surveying expertise in three different sectors of education, housing and regeneration.

On the first, our participation was in representing

This ethos has been implemented under the Decent Homes Framework where David White Associates continue to provide project management and quantity surveying services. The latter include Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) evaluation and agreement, interim valuation processes, actual cost authentication and final account agreement, covering validation of Shared Savings.

Since our first involvement back in March 2004, we have worked on Decent Homes regeneration schemes in the Ardsley, Burton Grange, Darfield, Grimethorpe, Hoyland, Kendray, Kingstone and Thurnscoe areas of Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council with projects totalling around £39 million.

Barnsley MBC's Decent Homes programme is scheduled for completion in 2008. By ensuring this deadline is met, it will beat the Government's own timetable by two years - an achievement in its own right.

Our latest involvement as Project Manager concerns the redevelopment of Barnsley's iconic building the Civic Theatre - together with the formation of

*Image supplied courtesy of Allen Tod Architecture

Craven House • 14-18 York Road • Wetherby • West Yorkshire • LS22 6SL t: 01937 589113 • f: 01937 589744 e: info@dwa-ltd.com • w: www.dwa-ltd.com

All of us, working to whatever degree in Barnsley's diverse regeneration schemes, have but one joint aim: to successfully achieve a renaissance that will be sustainable, life-changing and life-enhancing.

Speaking for David White Associates, our task en route to this end is to liaise closely with our client to provide full and continuous support in partnered relationships to ensure targets are met. We relish our role, and are committed to our partnership with Barnsley MBC. The Civic and Mandela Gardens project is supported

by Barnsley Council, Single Regeneration Budget, Objective 1 (European Regional Development Fund), Yorkshire Forward and the Arts Council of England.

Working with:

40

pollyanna boutique

alhambra mall

Residents don’t want a huge shopping mall, favouring the notion of traditional streets

discovered that local people would like to shop in Barnsley, with the majority identifying the town as their main retail centre, but go elsewhere because the facilities aren’t available.

It also identified the need for a cinema and a much wider range of after work entertainment choices, particularly more restaurants and bistros. This is exactly what the 1249 Partnership is planning, with a multiscreen cinema and the imminent overhaul of Barnsley’s dining offer.

Barnsley Council and the 1249 Partnership have proved receptive throughout the planning process. For example, during consultation sessions (which were attended by 1,500 people) it emerged that local residents didn’t want a huge shopping mall, instead favouring the notion of traditional streets – an element that became key to the final design.

The project passed through the planning process without receiving a single objection. Baker believes this reflects the thorough consultation process in the early stages as well as the strong relationship his team enjoys with both Barnsley Council and Yorkshire Forward. “They have been absolutely committed from the very earliest days to delivering the scheme and it’s very much a collaborative exercise,” he observes.

This bodes well for construction, due to begin early next year. As with any

type of transformational scheme, particularly one within a town centre, it’s a difficult task with the confined location, service diversions and phasing to allow market trading to continue just some of the considerations.

A huge amount of planning is ongoing between all of the parties involved and the close working relationship between private and public bodies is proving indispensable. “It’s complicated, but it is possible,” says Baker – which sounds like a pretty good tagline for successful regeneration.

Civic, Mandela Gardens and the Lanes An altogether different, but equally fabulous, shopping/leisure/cultural experience is set to open in the town centre this autumn/winter,with the conversion of the Civic and Mandela Gardens into a creative arts and specialist retail centre. The grade IIlisted Civic Hall will keep its impressive Victorian frontage on to Eldon Street but inside will be 21st century all the way. Designed by Allen Tod Architecture, the three floors will encompass design-led retail such as furniture and jewellery, Barnsley Council’s information centre, a new home for Barnsley’s Design Centre displaying regular exhibitions, and the Assembly Room which will function as the civic’s grand facade will be retained and the interior dramatically updated

the grade II listed civic hall

the new civic will hold regular exhibitions

Barnsley Be part of something exciting suscil esenim biggus flangepan

Retail gallery, performance and conference space.

Much of the redeveloped rear exterior of the former theatre will be transparent, offering great views into and out of the building. To the rear, the Civic will open on to Mandela Gardens, which links to the intricate network of small streets known as The Lanes. And there are big plans for them.

As Allen Tod’s director Simon Gedye says: “All towns need creative businesses and this is a tremendous opportunity to revitalise The Lanes area with fashion and design outlets.” This process is already under way. As well as internationally renowned designer store Pollyanna, The Lanes has recently welcomed a number of boutique style outlets ranging from kitchenware to childrenswear.

Changing the retail landscape In 2003, realising that the town’s retail offer needed to improve dramatically, Barnsley Council commissioned consultant Donaldsons to report on exactly where the town was failing and suggest possible options for the future. The resulting Barnsley Retail and Leisure Study forms the basis for much of the regeneration that is occurring today.

For example, it found that 66% of people living within Barnsley’s core catchment population consider it to be the main shopping centre. Why then, does Barnsley only manage to retain 40% of expenditure on comparison goods? The answer is simply that those products and/or the retail experience that modern day shoppers are looking for, is not – presently – available in the town.

As Donaldsons put it: “There are a number of areas requiring considerable improvement, the most important of which is major investment to provide a department store and shop units capable of accommodating modern retailers currently unrepresented in town or whose existing units are too small or poorly shaped.

“Allied to such a development is the need to redesign and upgrade the Markets, to encourage a wider range of quality leisure venues and to carry out a variety of environmental improvements to provide the ambience required by the ever more sophisticated user of town centre facilities.”

And the rest, as they say, is history.

41 Virtual wall Barnsley has often been accused of lacking a ‘sense of arrival’. This is one of the issues that the town’s regenerators are setting out to address: as well as a fabulous new transport gateway (see pages 30 and 31), the developments under way in the town centre are designed to create a virtual or ‘living’ wall. Placed at strategic points and performing much of the same functions as the traditional town gates of old, these impressive new markers will tell people they have well and truly arrived.

Timeline The town centre projects Westgate Civic Offices First phase completed Transport Interchange Due for completion summer 2007 Digital Media Centre Due for completion summer 2007 Civic and Mandela Gardens Due for completion autumn/winter 2007 Queens Hotel Due for completion summer 2007 Gateway Plaza Due for completion 2010 (offices completed 2008) Barnsley Markets Project Due for completion early 2011

Be part of something exciting Barnsley

42 Barnsley’s new commercial sector is getting down to business, thanks to its combination of location, financial incentives and determination to find a new niche.

W

ith shiny new offices providing cost-effective and convenient business space, a hub to nurture fastgrowing digital industries, an overhaul of its retail, cultural and leisure offer, a number of (newly or nearly built) business parks in the surrounding area and a fresh sense of optimism in the air, Barnsley’s future looks bright. Yet just a decade ago, the prospects for this South Yorkshire town seemed very bleak indeed, as it grappled with a painful and challenging question: how do you recover when the industry that you have relied on for generations (in this case coal mining) disappears almost overnight?

The answer has been ‘reinvention’.

Find new, modern and diverse sectors to fuel your economy, identify your strengths, promote them and build upon them. Since launching its £400 million regeneration programme in 2001, this is the strategy being pursued by the local council, Barnsley Development Agency (BDA) and its partners. Some suggest that reinvention is the wrong word: “We are going back to go forward and I mean that in the most positive sense,” says Rita Britton, founder of Pollyanna, the town’s internationally renowned designer clothes store. And she’s right.

Barnsley’s economic renaissance is drawing on more than 700 years of the GATEWAY PLAZA

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44

Industry & Commerce

the bbic is a major success

history as a market town to create its 21st century development vision.

In truth, the concepts which drive a market town haven’t changed much since the reign of Henry III – they just find a modern context. Enterprise, creativity and service provision need to be supported (more of that later) but, firstly they need to find a home. The new Digital Media Centre, Westgate office complex, the redevelopment of Queens Hotel into office space, and the highquality commercial element at Gateway Plaza are all set to offer the kind of town centre business space that Barnsley has been sorely lacking.

Barnsley’s Gateway Gateway Plaza, a 13-storey office, residential, retail and leisure complex by local developer Quest Property, will be one of the most striking features of Barnsley’s regeneration programme. The £70 million scheme is likely to feature up to 300 apartments (188 of which will be ready next year), a 100-bed hotel and 21,000sq ft (1,900sq m) of retail space all arranged around a stunning central plaza. The 120,000sq ft (11,000sq m) grade A office element, described by property development manager Matthew Stephens as “key”, will be ready for occupation by the end of next year. Talks are under way with potential tenants: “The office accommodation would be perfect for company headquarters, as a contact centre or as a base for a public sector organisation,” says Stephens. “We feel there is a gap in the market for a scheme like this.”

Next to Gateway Plaza, the £9.5 million Westgate development is

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NEW DIGITAL MEDIA CENTRE

providing a new home for Barnsley Council. The first members of staff moved into the state-of-the-art offices in January, when the 65,000sq ft (5,900sq m) phase one was completed. “Westgate signals the start of a new era for the town offering modern business accommodation within a high quality and integrated public realm,” says council leader Stephen Houghton. Once Westgate is complete by the end of 2011 it will bring most of the council’s employees, currently in a variety of locations, together – a strategy that makes economical and logistical sense.

Digital age The £9.3 million Digital Media Centre (DMC) perhaps best epitomises the spirit of the 21st century market town.

Barnsley and its surrounding region boasts around 3,250 companies in the creative and digital industries, employing more than 16,000 people. It’s a sector the regenerators would like to expand. But suitable accommodation, particularly for start-ups, has been limited. The Barnsley Business Innovation Centre (BBIC), which

Barnsley and its region has 3,250 companies in the creative and digital industries

provides incubator accommodation and support for over 100 companies, has been an overwhelming success – now the town needs similar ventures to meet demand and encourage business creation.

Set to open this summer, the stoneand glass-clad DMC will address this shortfall by providing affordable incubation space for fledgling companies with 113 business units, conference and meeting facilities. Funded by the South Yorkshire Objective 1 programme and Yorkshire Forward, the DMC will be managed by Oxford Innovation, on behalf of Barnsley Council. “This will be a flagship development,” explains Oxford Innovation’s marketing director Joanne Willett, who says that there has already been significant interest from potential occupants. “Barnsley really needs this type of incubation space, but it’s also about providing a focus for knowledge and ability. We will encourage companies to share their experiences and grow together through joint ventures.”

Save the Queens The renovation of the Queens Hotel is drawing on an altogether different era to create a fabulous corporate environment. The once grand Victorian establishment had fallen into decay when local firm Raley’s Solicitors embarked on its transformation of the building into 12 modern business units.

“We thought it was a shame that a building of such quality was falling apart,” says Raley’s partner Ian Firth.

Set to be complete by summer, the development is now being marketed by Smith’s Estate Agents. “There are some very attractive rooms, with many of the period features being returned to their

Regeneration is all about pragmatism.

Understand where it is you are going and where you want to be, then get on and do it

one capitol court part of Capitol park’s £60 million mixed-use development

original state,” says Firth, who points out that Queens could accommodate several small businesses or one or more larger companies.

For straight-talking Houghton, regeneration is all about pragmatism.

“Understand where it is you are going and where you want to be, then get on and do it because no-one else is going to do it for you.”

So, Barnsley is playing to its strengths: location, labour, price, space and determination. Chief of these is location: situated between Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester Barnsley has an available workforce of 1.3 million within 30 minutes’ drive. “We are in a fantastic position to provide ancillary services, administrative and digital back up. If you look at the companies we are attracting, these are among the types of jobs being created,” says David Kennedy, deputy chief executive of BDA.

Another key factor is price – Barnsley’s office rent is around £12.50 per sq ft (compared with £15-£18 in Sheffield and around £23-£25 in Leeds).

Industrial rents are about £4 per square foot (against £4.75 and £5 respectively).

Given its location, cost effectiveness and the strong political will to realise an economic turnaround, it’s perhaps no surprise that a number of new or planned business parks have emerged in the past few years. Take Sterling Capitol’s Capitol Park Barnsley, for example. This £60 million mixed-use development will offer 450,000sq ft of office and industrial space, a new 100-

bed Ramada Hotel, Toby Inn restaurant and bar and provision for 250 park-andride spaces.

Animation company Pit Stop Productions recently moved into a 3,000 sq ft hybrid office unit. “The demographics are superb,” says its managing director John Sanderson. “The location, just a couple of minutes from the M1, is excellent, while there is a pool of skilled, readily available labour in South Yorkshire. It’s an unbeatable site.”

Sterling work Last September, Priority Sites, in conjunction with Sterling Capitol, began constructing 30,000sq ft (2,700sq m) of grade A office accommodation at Capitol Park, due for completion this summer.

“We’re offering a real alternative and expect interest to be high, particularly now that construction has commenced and there is something to see,” says Graham Sadler, development director at Priority Sites. And as Guy Cooke, of property consultant Knight Frank, points out: “These are Leeds buildings at Barnsley prices.” While directed at Capitol Park, these sentiments could be applied to Shortwood, Ashroyd, Fields End, Zenith or any of Barnsley’s new commercial developments.

Look at the experience of Monarch Indexing, which relocated from West London to Barnsley two years ago. The company, which specialises in book finishing, recently became the first occupants of Priority Sites’ Shortwood

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Office costs Quite simply we want Barnsley to be the best place in the UK to start or run a business, that is our goal

Business Park. Monarch director Terry McCormack says commercial property prices in Barnsley have allowed the company to buy the new 6,200sq ft (560sq m) unit, increasing capacity by up to 40%, which would have been impossible in the South East. Since its move north, Monarch has seen turnover grow by 30%. As explanation, McCormack draws particular attention to the calibre of the Barnsley workforce.

“I’ve been very impressed with the staff.

They are very proactive and far more flexible than in London,” he says.

The advantages of the South Yorkshire town are clear to all who are based there, but David Kennedy says that breaking down misconceptions has been one of the greatest challenges of the entire regeneration. “Initially, just getting people to consider Barnsley was tough. But once they understand what we are doing and where we are heading, they realise just how appealing the offer is,” he says, adding that investment returns in Barnsley promise to be high.

From individuals with the beginnings of an idea to established companies looking to relocate, there is plenty of practical and financial assistance available (see box, right).

“Quite simply, we want to be the best place in the UK to start or run a business and that is our goal,” says Kennedy.

The town’s regenerators want to see much higher levels of small business creation. “A vibrant town is one where there is lots of economic activity,” adds Kennedy. The redevelopment of Barnsley will make a fantastic destination for businesses in all sectors.

Location

Average rent (per sq ft)1

Average annual pay 2

Average annual rent (20,000sq ft)1

Average Total annual pay for 200 staff 2

Barnsley

£12.50

£21,019

£250,000

£4,203,800

£4,453,800

Newcastle

£20.00

£21,236

£400,000

£4,247,200

£4,647,200

Cardiff

£18.50

£22,300

£370,000

£4,460,000

£4,830,000

Bristol

£25.50

£23,178

£510,000

£4,635,600

£5,145,600

Leeds

£25.00

£23,238

£500,000

£4,647,600

£5,147,600

Birmingham

£27.50

£23,573

£550,000

£4,714,600

£5,264,600

Oxford

£21.50

£25,086

£430,000

£5,017,200

£5,447,200

Manchester

£28.50

£24,433

£570,000

£4,886,600

£5,456,600

Edinburgh

£27.50

£24,824

£550,000

£4,964,800

£5,514,800

Reading

£23.50

£27,595

£470,000

£5,519,000

£5,989,000

London

£55.00

£46,260

£1,100,000

£9,252,000

£10,352,000

Costs based on average annual rent for centrally located Grade A office space plus average annual salary. Assumption that 20,000sq ft of office space accommodates 200 staff. 1. Average rent (source: King Sturge Research (mid 2006)).

2. Average ������������� pay (source: Annual Salary of Hours and Earnings (2006). Figures quoted are for gross pay for fulltime workers.

Objective one The level of assistance available to businesses that settle in Barnsley is fantastic. South Yorkshire is one of only four areas in the UK with EU Objective 1 status, allowing up to 35% of costs to be covered by public funds. Barnsley Development Agency (BDA) is geared up to attract inward investment, providing help with land and property information and advice, planning information and guidance, financial aid and grant availability, recruitment and training assistance, business advice, and on-going support.

BDA works with Barnsley Council, Barnsley Chamber of Commerce and Business Link South Yorkshire to meet companies’ relocation and expansion needs in a ‘one-stop shop’ environment.

First person Barnsley’s regeneration is first and foremost for local people. Kendray Options is one of BDA’s programmes providing assistance for people looking to return to work. This is Paul’s story:

“I was unemployed for 14 years before I completed a catering course at Barnsley College. I was claiming incapacity benefit and wanted to get to work. I was put in touch with Kendray Options who went through the different choices available to me. I decided to go for a scheme that combines training with a proper job.

“I was soon offered the position of trainee catering assistant at the Mill of the Black Monk in Monk Bretton and have been there for nine months now.

I’ve really enjoyed putting everything I learnt at college into practice. When my training period was finished the restaurant offered me a permanent job and I started with them properly in October 2006.”

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Remaking Barnsley is happening now Barnsley Markets

Gateway Plaza

The ambitious and exciting Remaking Barnsley regeneration programme is transforming Barnsley town centre into a vibrant community combining employment, culture, the arts, residential, leisure and retail – creating a 21st Century market town.

The programme includes the Markets Project, Digital Media Centre, The Civic, Gateway Plaza, Transport Interchange, Westgate and the Queen’s Development.

Remaking Barnsley is redefining Barnsley’s role. Be a part of it.

For further information visit www.barnsleydevelopmentagency.co.uk

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