CAMPAIGNERS and councillors have teamed up to fight against proposals to build hundreds of houses in Hemingfield and Jump - which would increase the number of properties in the areas by almost 50 per cent - with concerns the development would merge the two villages together.

The current proposals from Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes are to build 270 homes on green belt land between the two villages.

They were officially submitted this week and, with other developments currently underway, the number of new homes between the two areas could increase by more than 40 per cent.

The campaign group, ‘Save Hemingfield/Jump Green Belt’, has built up a host of support including from local councillors who have warned the plans could place ‘unsustainable pressure’ on local infrastructure and ‘permanently alter the character of the area’.

Residents have raised concerns that the proposal would effectively merge Hemingfield and Jump into a single continuous settlement, eroding the distinct identities and character of both villages.

They also fear the development would reduce the remaining green belt separation between Hemingfield, Wombwell and Elsecar, increasing urban sprawl and setting a precedent for further building on currently protected land.( The latest proposals come on the heels of the major Hemingfield Road development which, once fully completed across all phases, will have already brought around 430 new properties to Hemingfield.

If the newest plans get the green light, the combined total across both Hemingfield and Jump will soar to around 700 additional homes - marking a massive spike in the local population.

Stephen Dennis, who has lived in the area for more than 40 years, is the chair of the campaign group.

He told the Chronicle: “We formed the group to get people together and get their views.

“It’s not just about housing - we appreciate that houses have to be built.

“It’s about the possible destruction of the villages of Hemingfield and Jump by merging them together.

“It’s a huge area but we’ve got to put it in to context with the face that Hemingfield has, say 800 houses.

“So the development on Hemingfield Road will be about a 50 per cent increase.

“This will add to that.”

Councillor Michael Davies, who represents Hoyland Milton, said: “Many residents have contacted me with concerns about the impact this development could have on already stretched roads, schools, and GP services.

“I support the need for new homes, but development must be backed by the infrastructure communities need.

“Residents have made it clear that they want their voices heard, and I will continue to ensure their concerns are properly represented throughout this process.

“Residents have also raised concerns about the loss of Green Belt land between the two villages and the potential impact on local wildlife habitats and biodiversity.

“Questions have also been raised about drainage capacity and whether further development could increase flood risk in an area that has experienced flooding in the past.”

Fellow ward councillor Rachael Kay added: “The green belt between Hemingfield and Jump plays an important role in maintaining the identity of our villages and preventing the gradual merging of neighbouring communities.

“Residents want to see sustainable development that respects the character of the area and protects the green spaces that make our communities special.

“Their concerns deserve careful consideration as part of the planning process.

“The proposed development has prompted growing concern among residents that incremental losses of greenbelt land could gradually reduce the separation between neighbouring communities and fundamentally change the character of the area.

“We are calling for any future development to be proportionate, sustainable and supported by the necessary infrastructure before construction takes place, while ensuring that the voices of local residents remain central to the planning process.”

A spokesperson for Barratt and David Wilson Homes Yorkshire West said: “We have submitted a planning application for up to 270 homes on grey belt land in Jump to help address the significant demand for housing across Barnsley.

“Our proposals would deliver extensive local benefits including financial investment, public open spaces and a children’s play area, alongside 68 affordable homes which is 15 per cent more than current policy.

“Our public consultation is an important opportunity for residents to have their say and help shape the plans of future developments.

“We will continue to engage locally throughout the application process and encourage anyone keen to share their views to do so via our consultation website.

“Alternatively, residents will be able to provide feedback via the council once the planning application is validated and live on the council’s portal.”