Council carpeted over fake grass plans

HOYLAND residents have blasted Barnsley Council for ‘stupidity’ over plans to install artificial grass on flowerbeds.

The material has been proposed at Hoyland’s town square but residents have raised concerns about the temperature it can reach in hot weather, the lack of biodiversity, microplastics in the food chain and drainage capacity.

Coun David White, who represents the neighbouring Rockingham ward, added: “The council boasts about its green credentials but it’s diabolical.

“Imagine what it’ll look like when it’s been down a month – like a scrag end of carpet.”

Coun Robert Frost, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, defended the decision and said it was part of a range of improvements to local high streets.

He added: “Artificial grass has been chosen because it has been so successful and popular in the Glass Works square in Barnsley town centre.

“It will be used in a small, raised area in Hoyland square, which is currently a planted bed where people already try to sit on the edges but are limited due to the weather and ground conditions.”