PLANS to build more than 100 homes on a disused colliery site in Darton are set to be submitted to the council - more than two years after a separate firm had plans approved.
In 2022, applicant Rouse Homes’ plan to build a total of 115 homes on neighbouring sites off Woolley Colliery Road were approved by the planning board.
Up to 75 had been earmarked for the northern-most site, with 40 more on the southern part, according to a planning report.
The site has been plagued by fly-tipping in recent years and the Woolley Grange Residents’ Association said the application is a positive step forward.
However, the applicants decided to not move forward despite receiving planning permission - and now Gleeson Homes have earmarked the site for a total of 114 homes.
A leaflet was sent out to neighbouring residents recently, stating their intention to build homes on the site.
It states: “Gleeson Homes is proposing a new development set to deliver around 114 high-quality, energy efficient homes off Woolley Colliery Road, Darton.
“We focus on developing in areas where housing is most needed, ensuring our projects not only provide quality homes but also enhance the local community.
“We value the importance of being part of the communities in which we build and take pride in delivering developments that appeal to people from all walks of life.
“To find out more about the areas in which we are building, please visit gleesonhomes.co.uk.”
Darton East Coun Dickie Denton admits there are some positives surrounding the plan - but more needs to be done to support the current amenities.
He said: “An application to build on this site was first submitted by Rouse Homes in 2022 and approved by the council’s planning regulatory board, subject to conditions.
“However, the developers decided not to proceed.
“Gleeson’s are now looking at the site for their own development.
“Residents, councillors and relevant consultees will all have the opportunity to comment on the application.
“The Liberal Democrats recognise the need for extra housing in Barnsley but the council needs to include communities in the planning of the required infrastructure to support this.
“The council’s flawed local plan, which we opposed and called to be revised, does not include the road improvements, extra school places and GPs which you need.
“We should be developing communities and not just building houses
“There are some potential positives to this development, however, by utilising untidy brownfield land and providing a stimulus to the Woolley Colliery community which some feel is forgotten and isolated.”
Coun Denton has urged residents who are concerned about the plans to get in touch.
He added: “We would like to hear your views about this development and how you feel about it.
“Once the planning application is submitted your Darton East councillors will scrutinise it very closely.
“I will be your principal point of contact on this matter.”
