BARNSLEY Council is set to launch a new project to make the town ‘more age friendly’.

Barnsley’s population is ageing, with 40 per cent of people aged 50 or older.

The first stage of the Age Friendly project will focus primarily within the Glass Works, with the aim of expanding the scheme into the wider borough.

Tenants of the Glass Works will be invited to be part of the project and will be supported to achieve the Barnsley Age Friendly accreditation.

This accreditation will demonstrate to the public the range of steps that are being taken to make sure visitors’ experience of The Glass Works is positive.

Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “Our towns and cities need to ensure that urban centres remain accessible to all, including older adults as the UK’s average age continues to increase.

“In Barnsley, we are committed to being at the forefront of this initiative, being a place leader by tackling ageism, reducing stigma, and taking action to reduce the inequalities people experience as they grow older.

“This project is a wonderful step at making Barnsley the best place to grow old, but it is something that needs to be replicated across the country.”

The main principles of the scheme involve improving cleanliness, noise levels and green spaces in town centres, while also creating rest areas, reducing hazards, and creating cohesive and integrated spaces.