Todwick: Anger sparked by plans to build 50 acre industrial estate in village

The proposals, which are currently under consultation, form part of Rotherham Borough Council’s plans to develop Dinnington and the surrounding villages over the next 15 years.

If given the green light, over 500 new homes will also be built across Todwick, Harthill, Kiveton Park and Wales.

Concerns have been raised over the potential build of the industrial estate, which would involve building on a vast space of active agricultural land situated across from Todwick Road- a stretch of green belt land that forms a natural division between Todwick and Dinnington.

David Hartley, who lives close to the site, said: “This site often floods throughout the winter months from the high water table level and springs that drain into this area. Any large scale development on this site will result in further flooding of surrounding areas .”

“It will have impact downstream through the village of North Anston due to the increased surface water run off.”

“Across the Borough there are many former colliery sites in Dinnington, Maltby, Thurcroft and Wales. Many of these brownfield sites are still waiting for development, such as a 43 acre site just one mile down the road from this newly proposed site.”

“The Council has already spent money on infrastructure for this existing site yet have failed to attract any development or investment from third parties.”

“Much of this land remains vacant and it would be more economical and environmentally friendly to develop these areas before removing land from the green belt,” he added.

Todwick Parish Council were not available for comment, though it is understood that they have objected to the proposals.

Andy Duncan, planning policy manager for Rotherham Council, said any residents can view the plans online by visiting http://rotherham.limehouse.co.uk/portal