Public to be consulted over planning application for clay pigeon shoot

PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS are due over a clay pigeon shoot operating without planning permission.

Land off Westwood Lane, between the villages of Pilley and Howbrook, near Barnsley, has been used for clay pigeon shoots for some time, with parish councillors raising concerns Barnsley Council.

Residents have said the Sunday shooting sessions have generated noise which has become intrusive, while the parish council had fears about potential safety concerns, particularly for walkers using footpaths in the area. with

The land is owned by farmer Alex Tue and he confirmed months ago that a planning application would be made to formalise the arrangement, although when it was submitted it lacked a noise survey which had been requested.

That held up the process and parish councillors have since questioned why Barnsley Council had not taken enforcement action to prevent shooting at the site until the planning process was formalised. A full planning application has been submitted.

Matt Gladstone, the council’s executive director for place, said: “Clay pigeon shooting benefits from permitted development rights, which allow the land in question to be used for that purpose for a maximum of 28 days per calendar year. The current organised activity on this site is one event each week.

“This means that clay pigeon shooting can take place on the land for one day a week for over six months each year without the need for planning permission.

“However, the organisers have submitted a planning application as they would like activity to take place on more than 28 days each year.”