HOUSING developer Taylor Wimpey has submitted plans to build more than 160 homes on the former Kingstone school site.

Plans for the large housing estate have been expected since February when the Chronicle reported its intentions for the former school site, which closed in September 2012.

In a planning statement Taylor Wimpey says the development will help meet the borough's housing requirements and increase the attractiveness of that part of town.

As part of these proposals, land has been allocated for a proposed new fire station to allow Barnsley fire station to relocate from the other side of Broadway, allowing better access to the dual carriageway.

The 163-house development is a mixture of two, three and four bed terraced, semi-detached and detached homes. About 11 will be categorised as affordable houses.

Taylor Wimpey said there is also a potential for a contribution to be made to improve existing housing in the area, and a contribution would be made for primary education in that area.

It follows a community consultation held last December where plans went on public display and people were able to raise any issues or concerns with the developer. It was attended by about 20 to 30 people.