FURIOUS residents in Elsecar are gearing up for a proper fight - determined to "Save Our Field".
Plans for a social housing development on the field off Cobcar Lane have been greeted with anger and dismay by the people who live in the surrounding area.
They say the council-owned field, which used to have play equipment, has been used as a play area and football pitch by local children for more than 55 years and should remain a green space.
Ann Loxley, 54, who lives on Cobcar Street, said: "It is the only green space we have around here and I was completely stunned and upset when I got a letter saying they want to build on it.
"There are always kids playing there, it's been a play area for all my life and even longer and I cannot understand why anyone would think this is a good idea - it is not."
Residents have until Thursday (July 17) to lodge any objections with Barnsley Council.
A spokeswoman for Berneslai Homes said: "Berneslai Homes is investigating the possible development of a site on Cobcar Lane to develop low cost rented council housing. Obtaining planning permission is part of the investigation process. Affordable housing is needed in the local area and across the borough to satisfy demand from families on the council housing waiting list. Much of the site was until recently occupied by a builder's compound which had been there for more than five years."
