Goldthorpe regeneration blueprint to go out for public consultation
Residents in Goldthorpe and the Dearne are set to be asked what they think about a long-term plan to reshape the area over the next 15 years.
Barnsley Council’s cabinet will next week consider launching a consultation on a blueprint that could influence future housing, high street improvements, new skills provision and walking and cycling routes.
A report to the cabinet highlights ongoing issues to tackle in Goldthorpe, including poor-quality housing, empty units in the town centre, limited further education options and weak connections to jobs elsewhere in the borough.
Under the plans, the council says it wants to see better quality and more varied housing, improvements to the look and feel of the high street, stronger links to cultural venues such as the Dearne Playhouse, and new active travel routes using former railway embankments.
It also points to the need for more post-16 education and skills opportunities to support access to employment.
More than £23m has already been invested in the area through the Towns Fund, including housing projects and public realm improvements. The new vision is designed to set out a long-term plan for any potential future investment and help support bids for funding.
The document does not set out detailed building projects or delivery plans at this stage. Instead, residents’ feedback during the consultation will be used to refine the final strategy and help ensure it reflects the community’s priorities.
If approved, public consultation is expected to take place in spring, with residents invited to comment before a final version returns to Cabinet later in the year.
Councillor Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “By setting out a clear and deliverable plan, we can attract the investment needed to make these aspirations a reality. We’re looking forward to hearing from people during the consultation and working together to shape a positive future for the Dearne.”