A NEW river level monitoring device has finally been installed on the River Dove - marking a major step forward in improving flood preparedness for local residents.

The installation in Darfield follows several years of determined campaigning by the Low Valley Flood Group and Councillor Kevin Osborne, who have repeatedly pressed for an automatic and publicly accessible measuring system to replace the outdated manual gauge.

The device is currently undergoing calibration and is expected to be available for residents to view online shortly, providing real‑time data to support community safety and peace of mind.

Low Valley has long been a problem area for flooding, with residents calling for more to be done to ease their woes.

Coun Osborne said: “I’m so pleased to see this installed - the Low Valley Flood Group and I have pushed for this at every opportunity.

“I’m glad to see the Environment Agency finally taking action.

“This should put an end to residents having to stand by the river in the middle of the night, pointing torches at a wooden stick.”

Coun Osborne was joined by Coun James Higginbottom, cabinet member for environment and highways, who welcomed the progress.

“Coun Osborne has been calling for this installation at both local and regional flood‑risk meetings,” he added.

“I’m pleased that the Low Valley Flood Group and residents will shortly be able to access this important measurement.

“The new device will provide a more reliable and accessible way for residents to monitor river levels, supporting ongoing work by Barnsley Council and partner organisations to reduce flood risk and improve community resilience in Low Valley.”