Plan approved to support development of land to boost employment

Barnsley councillors have approved a plan which is intended to develop more land in the borough for employment uses.

The council’s Cabinet has given a green light to a proposed draft Masterplan Framework for Goldthorpe. This will support the development of employment land south of Dearne Valley Parkway.

The final version of the Masterplan Framework will now be presented to Full Council for adoption on Thursday 30 September.

The site has been allocated for development within the Local Plan and can accommodate 72.9 hectares of employment land and supporting infrastructure. The Masterplan Framework seeks to create a sustainable, high-quality employment site.

The Masterplan Framework considers:

  • Local amenities – services and public transport
  • Local infrastructure – road network, drainage and utilities
  • Technical constraints – land stability, biodiversity and heritage
  • Design considerations – movement and transport, green space, health, sustainability and energy usage

A public consultation was held for six weeks from Monday 25 January to Monday 8 March 2021, to allow residents to offer feedback and shape the draft plans.

Matt Gladstone, executive director for place, said: “The Goldthorpe Masterplan Framework will bring forward vital additional land for employment use in this area.

“Significant investment has taken place recently on improvements to Cathill, Broomhill and Wath Road roundabouts to improve access and journey times for residents and local businesses in the area, and this new site will provide a major jobs boost.

“We understand the impact on residents, and with all masterplans, are working hard to manage biodiversity and impact on the local landscape.

“The Goldthorpe development will provide a blueprint for future development sites for a low-carbon approach, including new walking and cycling routes.

“Currently, 70.1% of working age people in Barnsley have a job – this needs to be higher so our young people have something to aspire to. We’re investing so businesses, and jobs, stay in Barnsley.”

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