Doncaster Waterfront opens to public following remediation works

The site, known as the Waterfront East Park, off Chappell Drive, has been transformed from an underused, contaminated piece of land into a temporary green, open space built specifically to attract development projects and further investment for the city centre.

Funded by UK Government and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and backed by Homes England, Waterfront East offers developers a rare, highly de-risked opportunity to work in partnership with the public sector to deliver long-term, sustainable growth.

Following the completion of remediation works, the Council is seeking a development partner to help create a distinctive new neighbourhood that reflects the site’s waterside setting and industrial heritage. Proposals should deliver high-quality design, a strong mix of residential uses, and active ground floors that bring life to streets and public spaces.

Crucially, the Council is also prioritising long-term economic and social value including job creation, skills development and opportunities for residents.

It is anticipated that the land will be able to attract this outward investment and redevelopment over the next few years, with the connection to the city centre and the rail station clear benefits for future investors.

Whilst there is a gap between the completion of works and any development proposal, the area has become a temporary public realm space, which members of the public can now access.

Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, said: “The Waterfront area was one of the largest brownfield sites in the North, with significant potential for development, it is now a prime site for development with incredible potential and within walking distance of the city centre and local, regional and national transport links.

“Waterfront East represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape our city centre and create a dynamic new neighbourhood that people are proud to live, work and invest in.

“We have already laid the foundations through significant public investment, infrastructure and strategic partnerships. Now we are inviting the development market to work with us to bring forward ambitious, high-quality proposals that will deliver new homes, jobs and long-term prosperity for Doncaster.

“This is a pivotal moment for our city, and we are looking for a partner who shares our vision and commitment to unlocking Doncaster’s growth potential, the land has been opened into a temporary public open space and I hope people take the time to have a look for themselves how this historic piece of land has been transformed.”

The Waterfront area was previously used for several different purposes, including most famously a Victorian gas works and a sewage pumping station, leading the land to need to be remediated before any future works could commence. Specialised works began in December 2024, to remove soil contaminants such as cyanide, arsenic and lead.

The work also saw the delivery of new topsoil (predominantly grass with footpaths), trees, new perimeter fencing, fishing pegs as well as new fencing along the historic pumping station.

The works cost a total of £13m, with contributions from City of Doncaster Council, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) Gainshare funding, and LUF (Levelling Up Fund) monies.

To learn more about the work taking place in the city centre – visit City Centre: Creating a successful Urban Centre

Developers interested in the Waterfront East opportunity are invited to contact Business Doncaster on 01302 735555 or invest@doncaster.gov.uk