Esh completes Rotherham Riverside improvements

Esh Construction has completed a £4.4 million infrastructure scheme in Rotherham, marking a major milestone in the regeneration of the town centre.

Delivered on behalf of Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council (RMBC), the project included construction of a new access road and a riverside footpath linking Water Lane to the town centre. The route features new landscaping, retaining structures and infrastructure upgrades.

Key to the scheme’s delivery were concrete elements designed to ensure long-term structural integrity. Over 250 interlocking sheet piles were installed behind the existing river wall to futureproof the riverbank. The piles—each weighing up to six tonnes and measuring between 14–18 metres in length—were driven into position over five weeks. A concrete capping beam and steel balustrade were then installed to complete the new riverside route, designed for a 100-year design life.

The scheme also included deep drainage installation, new pavement construction and surfacing, gabion basket retaining walls, and cosmetic repairs to existing masonry, carried out by rope access-trained teams.

Michael Sherrard, construction manager at Esh Construction, said: “This project has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase our expertise in complex civil engineering. We’re proud to have successfully completed this transformative scheme, which plays an important part in the wider regeneration of Rotherham town centre.”

Cllr John Williams, cabinet member for transport, jobs and the local economy at RMBC, added: “We’re delighted to see this infrastructure project completed, opening up a new footpath along the river and wider site that paves the way for future development. The scheme has also delivered a brand-new access road alongside significant landscaping and infrastructure improvements.”

The project was procured through YORhub’s YORcivil2 framework. Esh also delivered social value through its Constructing Local strategy, contributing 66 apprentice weeks, 19 weeks of work experience and 392 hours of employment support. Sixty-seven percent of operatives were South Yorkshire residents.

Additionally, Esh redeveloped a community garden for Lighthouse Homes using £8,200 from the YOR4Good Fund. The project saw Esh’s team and agricultural students from RNN Group create growing spaces for residents to cultivate their own food.

The Rotherham Riverside scheme builds on Esh’s delivery of other public realm and active travel projects in the region, including works on Wellgate, Broom Road, Sheffield Road Cycleways, and the Maltby Bus Corridor.