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Campaign proposed to boost town’s ‘civic pride’
Liberal Democrat councillors in Rotherham have proposed a week-long campaign to celebrate the borough and strengthen civic pride. They say recognising the work of residents, groups and businesses could help challenge negative perceptions and build a stronger local identity.
The proposal, called Let’s Have Pride in Rotherham, includes possible history walks, cultural events, school projects and community clean-ups, alongside an expanded scheme for nominating community champions. Councillor Drew Tarmey said deprivation and past national attention had affected how some people identified their home, while council leader Chris Read pointed to existing events such as Rotherham Day and volunteer awards. The motion is due to be discussed at a council meeting on Wednesday.
In short
- Councillors propose a week-long celebration of Rotherham.
- Plans include local events and community awards.
- The motion will be discussed at a council meeting.
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The case for
A borough-wide week could give residents, community groups and local businesses a visible way to recognise their contributions and share Rotherham’s history and culture. Supporters may see this as a practical way to strengthen belonging and counter one-sided perceptions, especially where deprivation or past coverage has shaped how people view the town.
The case against
A dedicated campaign may be less valuable than directing limited council time and resources towards residents’ immediate needs, particularly in a borough facing deprivation. Critics could also argue that existing events and volunteer awards already celebrate local contributions, so a new week risks duplicating work without changing the underlying conditions that affect people’s lives.
Explained simply
Rotherham is a borough in South Yorkshire, made up of the town of Rotherham and surrounding communities. Like many places, it has local groups, businesses and volunteers whose work shapes daily life and the area’s identity.
“Civic pride” means people feeling a connection to and valuing the place where they live. Supporters of community events and awards say they can recognise local contributions and help residents share a broader picture of the borough.