Rotherham Steel Company’s Warehouse Extension Approved Amid Resident Concerns
MTL Advanced, a prominent steel fabricator located on Grange Lane in Brinsworth, Rotherham, has received planning approval for a significant expansion to its recently built warehouse. On April 10, 2025, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council granted permission for the extension, which will add 1,237 square meters to the existing building. The expansion is primarily for storage purposes, with a side extension consisting of a canopy and a rear extension that will be fully enclosed.
Despite reassurances from MTL Advanced that the expansion will not increase traffic or require additional employees, some local residents have voiced their objections to the plans. They expressed concerns about the potential impact on their quality of life, particularly regarding noise levels, traffic congestion, and the overall strain on local infrastructure.
Key Details of the Expansion
MTL Advanced’s proposed extension is intended to accommodate increased storage needs for the company. The new space will not involve the addition of new equipment or workers. The company has emphasized that there will be no increase in traffic or parking requirements as part of the project. Additionally, the extension is expected to have a minimal impact on local noise levels, as it will be used solely for storage rather than active manufacturing or machinery operations.
Karl Stewart, the general manager of MTL Advanced, outlined the broader benefits of the expansion, which include creating up to 50 new local jobs in 2025 and contributing £500 million to the UK economy. Stewart also highlighted the company’s commitment to responsible growth, stating that the investment in the extension represents a £16 million development, with further plans to expand MTL’s training academy and recruit additional apprentices.
“We recognise the concerns of local people and are committed to working with residents to act in a socially responsible manner,” Stewart said. “The planning application under consideration today is in the best interests of residents, as it ensures that all products are stored internally, reducing external storage needs.”
Resident Objections: Concerns About Noise, Traffic, and Infrastructure
Despite the company’s reassurances, six local residents lodged formal objections to the planning application. Their primary concerns centered around the potential for increased noise during the construction phase and in the future, as well as the continuing strain on Grange Lane’s already congested roads. Residents expressed frustration over past traffic disruptions and voiced concerns that the extension would exacerbate local traffic issues.
One major complaint raised by residents was the disruption caused by heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), with some expressing concerns that the business’s operational hours—starting as early as 6:00 AM—create noise and traffic disturbances in the early morning hours.
Additionally, residents highlighted issues with air pollution and the lack of improvement in local infrastructure to accommodate the growing demands of businesses like MTL Advanced. Some felt that their concerns were not being adequately addressed by the council or the company.
Chris Wilkins, Development Manager at Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council (RMBC), acknowledged the complaints but emphasized that the council had received few objections overall. “The applicant has been very helpful in providing CCTV evidence of vehicles going in and out of the site,” Wilkins said. “There has been the odd breach, but the applicant has addressed it each time and put steps in place to prevent it from happening again.”
Support from the Council and Conditions for Approval
Despite the concerns from residents, key departments within the council, including transport, environmental health, and drainage, supported the planning application. None of the departments raised objections to the proposal, although they recommended certain conditions to mitigate any potential impacts.
The council’s decision to approve the extension was influenced by MTL Advanced’s promise to take proactive measures to manage traffic and reduce disruptions. Furthermore, the company’s positive contributions to the local economy, including job creation and its investment in apprenticeships, played a significant role in securing approval for the expansion.
Karl Stewart reinforced the importance of the extension for the long-term viability of the business and its workforce. “This application guarantees the long-term future of the business and up to 400 employees and their families,” he stated.
Key Takeaways:
• Warehouse Expansion Details: MTL Advanced has been granted approval to expand its warehouse by 1,237 square meters, which will be used solely for storage purposes.
• Economic Benefits: The expansion is expected to contribute £500 million to the UK economy, with 50 new local jobs created in 2025 and a further 20 apprentices to be recruited.
• Resident Concerns: Six residents raised objections regarding noise, traffic, and infrastructure strain, particularly during the construction phase and due to early morning HGV operations.
• Council Support: The planning application was supported by Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council’s transport, environmental health, and drainage departments, with conditions set to mitigate potential impacts.
• CCTV Evidence: The company provided CCTV footage to demonstrate responsible traffic management and has made steps to prevent breaches of operational guidelines.
• Future Impact: The extension is seen as crucial for the long-term success of MTL Advanced, ensuring job security for up to 400 employees and their families.
• Community Engagement: MTL Advanced has expressed a commitment to addressing local concerns and working with residents to minimize any adverse effects on the surrounding community.
