BARNSLEY and Penistone Liberal Democrats have thrown their support behind local residents in the campaign to save Penny Pie Park from being turned into a busy traffic gyratory system.
Under plans already approved by Barnsley Council’s leader and cabinet, much of Penny Pie Park on the corner of Pogmoor Road and Dodworth Road will be destroyed, effectively becoming the central reservation of a multi-lane gyratory system.
The council claims the plans are necessary to reduce congestion in the local area and on the M1, but campaigners say the plans won’t work, will increase air and noise pollution and will ruin a well used green space.
Coun Hannah Kitching, who represents the Penistone West ward, attended a yellow ribbon tying day at the park on Monday to meet with residents and campaigners, along with Liberal Democrat campaigner David Greenhough.
“This matter was brought to my attention by my residents in the Penistone area,” said Coun Kitching.
“This is the main route into Barnsley for people travelling from the west and they are very concerned about the impact of these plans both on their travel arrangements and of course on this valuable green space.
“It is astounding that the council would seek to destroy a well used and well maintained public park in a part of the borough which is woefully lacking in public green spaces.
“This park has a children’s play area, a multi use games space and an outdoor gym as well as being a haven for dog walkers and joggers. During the recent spell of hot weather the park has been busy every single day.
“The council should be seeking to invest in and protect its public green spaces, not concrete them over.
“Having spoken to local campaigners I would like to offer them my full support and to reassure them that they have support from the Penistone community too. Wherever you live in the borough I would urge you to sign their petition and also submit your comments to Barnsley Council.
David Greenhough added: “This is yesterday’s solution to tomorrow’s problem. In 2018 we should not be investing in building new road networks. Road congestion should be addressed instead by more active and sustainable means. An improved, more frequent rail service from the west of the town would encourage rail use and reduce car use on this stretch of road.
“A park and ride at Dodworth would allow easier flow of traffic and reduce car dependency, as well as alleviating town centre parking issues. And what about investing in cycle lanes and shared cycle services? A road system like this will discourage cycling and active travel. Please do sign the petition and submit your views to Barnsley Council.”
The petition can be found here and the planning application can be found at the council’s planning website here.
