PLANS to reduce the speed limit near Darfield are set to be implemented - despite concerns around it leaving drivers ‘aggravated’ and more likely to attempt reckless overtaking.

As part of the project to create more employment land in Goldthorpe, it was identified that a new access from the A635 Barnsley Road was required.

In February 2022, councillors approved a new roundabout on the road on the approach to Goldthorpe - and construction has recently finished.

The current speed limit on the road is 60mph - but new proposals show that the road, from Cathill roundabout to Hollygrove roundabout, is set to be reduced to 50mph.

It is likely to be approved at next week’s cabinet meeting despite some concerns from locals.

The report said: “As part of the review process, 85th percentile speeds were evaluated, indicating a speed of 52mph (85th percentile speed is the speed at which 85 per cent of all traffic is travelling at or below).

“This data demonstrates that it is possible to reduce the current speed limit to a more appropriate level without adversely affecting traffic flow, with little or no noticeable impact on the travelling public.

“An objection states that the previous speed limit was satisfactory and reducing the speed limit will only aggravate drivers and encourage overtaking.

“There will be a negligible impact on road traffic, but this speed will improve safety.”

Darfield councillors Kevin Osborne and Pauline Markham said: “We fully support the proposal to reduce the speed limit on the A635 Doncaster Road from the national speed limit to 50 mph.

“This stretch is a busy trunk route carrying both commercial and commuter traffic from Barnsley, through Darfield and out towards the A1 and the Dearne Valley.

“A 10mph reduction may seem modest, but it will make a meaningful difference in lowering the risk and severity of serious collisions.

“Anything that reduces the potential for harm on our roads is worth backing, and this is a sensible, proactive step to keep people safe.”