Next phase of ‘The Glass Works’ development given the green light

‘The Glass Works’ development scheme in Barnsley town centre celebrated a key milestone on Tuesday (September 27th), as planning permission was granted for the next phase of the project.‘The Glass Works’ is the 3.8 hectare, £130 million development scheme funded by Barnsley Council that is set to transform the heart of the town centre.Construction has already started on the initial phase of the scheme, which includes the new state-of-the-art Library @ the Lightbox and a contemporary transformation of the Metropolitan Centre, which will provide a brand-new home for the town’s famous markets.The Library @ the Lightbox and the revitalised markets are all currently scheduled to open in 2018.Following the completion of phase one, the second stage of the development, which was officially given the go ahead on Tuesday 26 September, will begin in autumn 2018. Work will include the 25 new retail units and 10 family-friendly restaurants, which will frame a new public square and extend along a new shopping route.This phase will also see the delivery of ‘The Glass Works’ two key leisure anchors, ‘Cineworld’ and ‘Superbowl UK’, who both signed 20-year leases earlier this year. Cineworld will provide a modern 13-screen multiplex cinema and S’uperbowl UK’ will offer ten pin bowling, ‘Laser Quest’ and a crèche, providing a fun environment for all ages.Barnsley Council and development managers Queensberry are working towards a completion date of 2020 for the entire scheme.