Greener estates to be pushed by council

STRINGENT guidelines are set to be placed on developers seeking to build in Barnsley in an effort to make housing estates and business sites more environmentally friendly.

A consultation is underway on new proposals to implement a supplementary measure for developers to adhere to.

Entitled a ‘sustainable construction and climate change adaptation’, it will help reduce carbon emissions, according to Barnsley Council bosses.

Included in the raft of measures is a carbon assessment for developments of ten or more homes, and commercial developments of 1,000m2 or above, as well as properties to be fitted with low carbon heating systems.

Coun Robert Frost, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “We’re working hard to bring more jobs and investment to Barnsley, and with that comes planning applications for new buildings.

“We’re also required by the government to deliver at least 900 additional homes a year.

“Therefore we must make sure our planning process is robust so we can ensure we have appropriate and sustainable growth, because we all have a part to play in helping Barnsley to be net zero carbon by 2045, protecting our borough for future generations.

“This proposed supplementary document will support the aims of our local plan for a sustainable Barnsley over the long-term, and we welcome local people’s view on these important proposed changes.”

Visit the council’s website to have your say.