RESIDENTS have been consulted about potential changes to road calming measures after an increase in congestion in the area.

The chicanes throughout the villages of Little Houghton, Middlecliffe and Billingley were installed following a fatal collision to help prevent speeding throughout the villages.

However, one Darfield ward councillor claims the measures are ‘no longer fit for purpose’ after noticing traffic had come to a standstill in recent months - leading to queuing near a busy roundabout.

“I understand the chicanes were installed following a collision, however they are no longer fit for purpose,” said Coun Kevin Osborne.

“Since they have been installed, the ASOS warehouse has been built which is a significant employer in the area.

“This means that Little Houghton, Middlecliffe and Billingley now experience four rush hours in a day - the two when work starts and ends, and two for the first and last delivery from ASOS.

“The volume of traffic has caused significant traffic issues, leading to a bottleneck right onto cathill roundabout which isn’t ideal.

“It has also caused issues in Billingley as commuters are using the village as a ‘go around’ to avoid the queues throughout Little Houghton and Middlecliffe.”

Along with Barnsley East MP Stephanie Peacock, Kevin sent out a survey to local residents to discover whether residents want the chicanes removed to allow faster traffic flow.

Stephanie said: “I was pleased to assist Coun Osborne in delivering his consultation leaflet at the weekend.

“Kevin is proving himself to be a really hard working councillor for Darfield who is putting the needs of his residents first.

“It was one of his pre-election pledges to consult on this issue and it’s great to see him carry out this promise.”