BARNSLEY Council has sold off a parcel of land in Staincross to a housing developer, it has been revealed.

Ben Bailey Homes have already secured planning permission to build almost 40 homes south of Coniston Avenue.

However, the council have now sold a parcel of land to the developers so that it can provide access.

A report said: Ben Bailey Homes are currently under contract to acquire the privately owned land which adjoins the council’s land and is located at its southern most boundary.

“The land that Ben Bailey Homes are looking to acquire, is essentially the main access to the privately owned land which adjoins the council’s land and is located at its southern most boundary.

“Without the council’s land the adjoining land could not be comprehensively developed for housing, as the alternative access from Pennine View at the south of this site is insufficient to allow any meaningful development, which Ben Bailey Homes are looking to provide.

“The proposal will provide a new supply of much needed housing for the area and the borough as a whole.

“In addition the development includes an element of affordable housing, which will be of additional benefit to those residents seeking such accommodation.”

It’s expected that the developer will pay the council a total of £195,000 for the land.