Green light recommended for job-creating storage and distribution units

Plans for a pair of storage and distribution units with the potential to support the creation of up to 600 jobs on a site in South Yorkshire are recommended for approval next week (21 December 2021).Newlands Developments, supported by Cushman & Wakefield, submitted an application to Barnsley Council earlier this year for development at Hoyland West Plot 2.Planning permission was granted last year for a hybrid application including a 340,000 sq ft distribution hub for parcel delivery giant Hermes and a further 770,000 sq ft of employment space.The Hermes unit, on Plot 1 at the site, is currently under construction and is set to support the creation of about 1,400 jobs.The application for Plot 2 seeks full planning permission for two storage and distribution units, measuring a combined 450,000 sq ft, with ancillary offices including internal access roads, associated infrastructure and landscaping.Plot 2A would comprise a 250,000 sq ft unit with 15,000 sq ft office, 27 docks, 169 car parking spaces, 62 HGV spaces and 25 cycle spaces.Plot 2B would feature a 172,000 sq ft unit with 14,000 sq ft office, 19 docks, 120 car parking spaces, 43 HGV spaces and 17 cycle spaces.It has been estimated that the development could support the creation of 550-600 jobs when operational, as well as significant construction and indirect employment opportunities.The application will go before the council’s planning regulatory board on 21 December and is recommended for approval, subject to conditions and the signing of a legal agreement, in an officer’s report prepared for the meeting.The report highlighted the “cumulative socio-economic benefits” of the proposed development.