A new project in Doncaster city centre could turn the former toffee factory site into a national hub for digital production and creative industries.
Plans for the 23-acre Waterfront site near the River Don Navigation include state-of-the-art film and TV studios, a digital media centre, hotel, 300 apartments and senior living accommodation.
Doncaster Council said the project, which will be open for public consultation in a few weeks, could bring significant investment to the city.
‘Purpose-built facilities will house state-of-the-art film, television and digital content studios, complemented by creative workspace and a centre for learning in digital media,’ a council report noted. ‘These assets will anchor a new creative industries cluster and help position Doncaster as a national centre for digital production.’
Plans for the site, previously home to Victorian gas works, are being delivered by Doncaster Waterfront Ltd in partnership with City of Doncaster Council.
The local authority have acknowledged some technical challenges, including flood risks, but said the majority of the residential and commercial developments will be delivered within the wider Waterdale area.
Much of Waterdale is currently derelict and the Colonnades shopping precinct has a high vacancy rate.
The report added: ‘Doncaster’s beating heart represents the retail, business, civic and cultural core of the city centre. This could include a mix of new development and refurbishment, incorporating adjacent sites.
‘New development should define clear streets and routes with active frontage at the ground floor level including retail and commercial units. There is the potential for a significant new public space to complement Sir Nigel Gresley Square.’
A ‘health on the high street’ hub is also included in the plans. A council lease to Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS will also be included to provide outpatient services in the city centre.
Image: Openverse/Doncaster Waterfront
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