The social and economic impact of improving a town centre: The case of Rotherham

The objective of this research is to take a single-case approach to evaluate the role of entrepreneurs and enablers in the effective regeneration of a town centre, and the consequent social and economic impacts. The study is in Rotherham in South Yorkshire, which was selected to receive national funding as part of the Mary Portas initiative. Secondary research was based on relevant bid documents prepared by Rotherham Investment and Development Office. Primary research included semi-structured interviews with several retailers in the regenerated Rotherham high street, local enablers who had a direct impact on the entrepreneurship and external stake-holders with a relevant perspective and interest in the events. In addition, visitors to the high street in Rotherham were sampled and questioned on their feelings and experiences. This paper will help those interested in the regeneration of our town centres and high streets to understand better both the challenges and possibilities for creating sustainable social and economic value and improvement. The basic premise is that initiatives such as the Portas project need the engagement and intervention of local entrepreneurs and enablers if they are to result in valuable outcomes. It is what actually happens and the execution of the ideas proposed in bid documents more than the creativity and persuasiveness of the bid itself that matter. By taking a people-centred approach to the investigation and analysis, valuable insights into town centre regeneration can be provided.