Council set to scrap plans for new sports facility

A project to improve community facilities in one of Barnsley's most deprived communities looks set to be abandoned.

Barnsley Council unveiled plans in March for a new building with modern sports changing rooms and a community classroom space at Rabbit Ings Country Park in Royston.

At the time, the council was led by Labour but Reform UK won control in May's local elections and is now looking at withdrawing funding, saying "difficult decisions" need to be made about where to spend money.

Labour has criticised Reform as this is the second community project under threat after funding for Penistone Paramount cinema was withdrawn.

Rabbit Ings is a former coke works with walking and cycling trails and a recreational area.

The council previously said the new facility would "support wider ambitions for a healthy Barnsley" as it would help more people enjoy outdoor spaces and leisure. It said community feedback had been "very positive".

The scheme was part of the council's Principal Towns and Local Centres programme which has already spent £11m improving high streets and community spaces across Barnsley, with £35m planned over coming years.

Since taking control of the council, Reform has reassessed Rabbit Ings and Penistone Paramount cinema.

Reform has already cancelled a planned renovation of Penistone Town Hall, home to the cinema, which was also part of the Principal Towns projects.

Coun Luke Wheat, Reform cabinet spokesperson for regeneration, said: "A final decision has not yet been taken on the future of the Rabbit Ings project, it will be discussed at cabinet in December.

"This is part of the wider review into our capital projects programme to ensure every pound we spend is spent wisely.

"We want to deliver the best value for money for our residents on projects which will make a practical difference to their lives. Difficult decisions will have to be made about where we prioritise our investment."

Reform said they were committed to investing in Royston and will consider future investment opportunities that are "affordable and provide value for money".

Barnsley Labour described it as a "severe blow" to communities. Labour group leader Coun James Higginbottom said: "This is another alarming proposal from Reform, who seem to have an agenda to strip away the things which communities value and need.

"Since May, many families have already lost the school uniforms allowance, help for pensioners has been reduced and funding for Penistone Paramount improvements is facing the axe.

"It appears Reform are now in the process of dismantling this work, which is a severe blow to the communities affected and sends a message to those who trusted them in the May elections."

Barnsley Council cabinet will discuss the issue at a meeting on 4 December.

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