News

SCAPE Construction Framework delivers Seam Digital Campus in Barnsley

Thu, 2nd Apr, 2026

Phase one of The Seam Digital Campus in Barnsley - a striking new urban park and public realm development that positions the town as a forward-thinking hub for creative innovation and digital technology - has now been completed.

Delivered through the SCAPE Construction Framework, which accelerates project delivery while providing public sector clients with time and cost certainty, the scheme was developed in collaboration with Willmott Dixon. Together, we have transformed the heart of the town centre with a 4,700 square metre urban park, three landmark Yorkshire Rose sculptures and high-quality landscaped gardens.

The centrepiece of the development is the trio of Yorkshire Rose sculptures, designed by Tim Ward of Circling The Square and fabricated by Stage One. The central ‘Mater’ (Mother) Rose stands 15 metres tall, flanked by two 12-metre sculptures – ‘Pruna’ (Glowing Coal) and ‘Vitrum’ (Glass) – honouring the borough’s industrial heritage. The sculptures incorporate digital lighting and sound technology that will be used for future events and creative programming.

Reflecting our commitment to maximising social value, the project has created meaningful benefits for the local community, delivering a public space for events and culture, while contributing to the wider regeneration of the town centre. The wider public realm comprises three distinct landscaped gardens – a biodiversity garden, a digital garden and a town centre link – alongside a central plaza, bringing together digital innovation, culture and nature.

Phase one also includes major upgrades to the refurbished Lower Seam car park with 286 spaces, EV charging points, improved lighting, upgraded CCTV and well-lit pedestrian walkways.

"We are delighted to see the completion of the Seam Digital Campus, marking our first project with Barnsley Council. Delivered in collaboration with Willmott Dixon and accelerated through the SCAPE Construction Framework, the project reflects SCAPE’s commitment to delivering meaningful social value."

Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE

Mark added: "The development strengthens the area’s role as a hub for innovation, digital growth, opportunity, and community regeneration, helping to shape Barnsley’s future and create a lasting legacy for years to come.”

“It’s fantastic to open phase one of The Seam Digital Campus, a project which has been years in the making in the UK’s first Investment Zone. The Yorkshire Rose sculptures are an incredible addition to our town centre and will be a proud symbol of our new status as the UK’s first government-backed Tech Town as well as driving forward the ambition from our Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy of being the UK’s leading digital town."

Councillor Sir Stephen Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council

Stephen added: "My thanks go to Tim Ward, who designed the sculptures, and every person who has helped to make our vision a reality, particularly those at Willmott Dixon, Stage One, DZA and The Seam Project Board at the council.”

Phase one is the first stage of Barnsley Council’s wider ambitions for The Seam Digital Campus.