South Yorkshire organisations seek to tackle dangerous parking at popular beauty spot near Sheffield

Yorkshire Water, South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Council are working with Highways England to tackle dangerous parking along the A616 at Langsett, on the edge of Sheffield after reports and complaints of vehicles parked along verges and in lay-bys.

Highways England recently issued a warning to motorists urging them to park responsibly and show extra care after photos published showed cars parked dangerously on the A616 road.

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Kim Taylor, programme development team leader at Highways England, who manage and maintain the A616, said: “We’re unfortunately seeing more irresponsible parking along the verges and for the wrong reason in lay-bys which puts every other road user in serious danger, as well as themselves.

“One of our gritters was unable to get through in one instance after two vehicles were parked inconsiderately on both sides of the road. We understand that people will want to visit this beautiful area of Yorkshire as restrictions ease, but we want everyone to be safe and consider the safety of others.”

Temporary signage has been installed by Highways England and Yorkshire Water along the A616, and plans are currently in place to maximise the available parking spaces.

Gaynor Craigie, head of land and property at Yorkshire Water, said: “The easing of lockdown restrictions is welcome, and the prospect of meeting up with friends and family outside in larger groups is a relief for many. We are expecting open spaces to be particularly busy now restrictions have been eased, and we enter a period of school holidays and bank holiday weekends.

"It is important people are considerate of local communities and understand the dangers of parking illegally at any of our sites, but particularly at Langsett where cars parked on the side of the road can pose a significant danger to other road users. We will have colleagues on site in the coming weeks to help visitors with parking and ensure they can enjoy our reservoir safely.”

People looking to visit the beauty spot should use the designated car park at Langsett Reservoir or turn back if it is full.

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