Heritage site to be restored following acquisition

A partially Grade II listed Penistone heritage site which has been derelict for years has been acquired by a South Yorkshire property and land business.

The company plans to invest in and renovate the area, restoring the “eyesore” to its former glory.

Barnsley-based Fairbank Investments Ltd has acquired the Coal Drops, signal house, and former railway siding site.

The Coal Drops, located west of the bridge under Penistone Woodhead Railway, were Grade II listed in 1988. It is thought the six-arched stone segmented structure dates back to the mid-19th century.

Fairbank Investments has committed to developing the site, to benefit the local economy and the environment.

The company has a track record of development projects such as the old David Brown factory in Penistone.

This has been turned into a new business park with 15,000 sq ft of offices and a further 66,000 sq ft of warehouse space, creating jobs and attracting businesses to the area.

Antony Green, managing director of Fairbank Investments, said: “The Coal Drops is a hugely important site of cultural and historical interest in Penistone and we want to help preserve this heritage, rather than see the site continue to fall into further disrepair.

“We are thrilled to be taking on this new project and are looking for the co-operation of neighbouring land owners to enable us to deliver a scheme that will benefit Penistone.

“We’re excited to bring new businesses, jobs, and opportunities to the region, while also prioritising sustainability and environmental responsibility wherever possible.”

He added the site has significant mixed-use development potential.

Active planning consent for residential development on the goods yard section of the site is under full review given the wider plans for the scheme.

Consultations are ongoing with local authorities and community groups to ensure any development aligns with the community’s requirements.