Rotherham Council officers hope that a bid to split the Haugh Road site, between council bungalows and a community garden, will put an end to discord over its future use.

High Street resident Ted Frost, and people living close to the former baths site, opposed recent council plans to build 16 homes there, claiming the land was given to Rawmarsh people for community use in
1925 by the Fitzwilliams.

Mr Frost insisted the land was given as a permanent war memorial institution, dedicated to all those who died in World War I.

He said it should go to public auction, and the proceeds to Wentworth Estates.

Coun Shaun Wright said the decision over the site is set to be approved in coming weeks.

Government legislation that relaxes rules for building in smaller areas had influenced the decision.

He told the Times: "We have had discussion about this site, that is designated for community use, and feel that with probably about two thirds of the site used for council bungalows, and the rest for a garden in which the community can put whatever they would like to, we might satisfy everybody.

"It is agreed by the council that this is our preferred plan of action."
The idea of a memorial garden was first touted four years ago, after a residents' committee asked Groundwork Dearne Valley to draw up plans.

These were later vetoed by the council cabinet.

Rawmarsh Baths was built in 1935, then demolished in 2001. Rotherham Council shares part ownership of the land with Wentworth Estates.