Noise complaints over clay pigeon shoot

Public consultations are due over a clay pigeon shoot operating without planning permission and which has generated complaints of noise as well as worries about safety for those using footpaths in the area
Planning permission would safeguard the future of this shoot in PilleyPlanning permission would safeguard the future of this shoot in Pilley
Planning permission would safeguard the future of this shoot in Pilley

Land off Westwood Lane, between the villages of Pilley and Howbrook in Barnsley, has been used for clay pigeon shoots for some time, with both residents of Pilley and Tankersley Parish Council raising concerns with Barnsley Council.

Residents have said the Sunday shooting sessions have generated noise which has become intrusive, with the parish council had concerns about potential safety concerns, particularly for walkers using footpaths in the area.

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The land is owned by farmer Alex Tue and he confirmed months ago that a planning application would be made to formalise the arrangement, though when it was submitted it lacked a noise survey which had been requested by council planners.

That held up the process parish councillors have since questioned why Barnsley Council had not taken enforcement action to prevent shooting at the site until the planning process was formalised, though they were told planners had to consider whether harm was being caused before taking such action.

Barnsley Council has now confirmed a full planning application has been submitted and will be considered.

Matt Gladstone, Exectutive Director for Place, said: “Clay pigeon shooting benefits from permitted development rights, which allow the land in question to be used for that purpose for a maximum of 28 days per calendar year. The current organised activity on this site is one event each week. This means that clay pigeon shooting can take place on the land for one day a week for over 6 months each year without the need for planning permission.“However, the organisers have submitted a planning application as they would like activity to take place on more than 28 days each year. Consultation on the application has been delayed by our requirement for the submission of a noise survey. This has now been received and so public consultation will commence shortly.”