Work has officially commenced on the construction of a new £12 million business park in Barnsley, expected to create up to 185 jobs. The Kestrel Park development, located near the A6195 Dearne Valley Parkway, is set to be completed by early 2026 and aims to provide high-quality industrial space to meet local demand.
Key takeaways
- Investment: The project is backed by £3 million from South Yorkshire’s Investment Zone Funding.
- Size and scope: Kestrel Park will feature approximately 77,400 square feet of industrial space across seven units.
- Sustainability: The units will include solar panels, electric vehicle charging points, and LED lighting.
- Economic impact: The development is expected to boost local employment and support business growth in the area.
Overview of Kestrel Park
The Kestrel Park project is being developed by Carnell Management Services (CMS) and is designed to cater to the increasing demand for industrial space in Barnsley. The site will consist of seven units, providing a total of 77,400 square feet of high-quality accommodation. This initiative is particularly significant as it aims to attract both local businesses and inward investors looking for modern facilities.
Local government support
Barnsley Council has expressed strong support for the project, with Robin Franklin, the council’s cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, highlighting the importance of the development for the local economy. He stated, "We’re looking forward to seeing the site develop, encourage business growth, provide new employment opportunities for our residents and boost our local economy."
Franklin further emphasised that Barnsley is a welcoming environment for businesses, noting the council’s commitment to fostering a strong relationship with CMS. This partnership is seen as a vital step in ensuring that Barnsley remains an attractive location for investment.
Features of the business park
The Kestrel Park development is designed with sustainability in mind. Key features include:
- Solar panels: To harness renewable energy and reduce carbon footprint.
- Electric vehicle charging points: To support the growing number of electric vehicles.
- Cycle parking: Encouraging sustainable transport options for employees.
- LED lighting: To enhance energy efficiency within the units.
These features not only align with modern environmental standards but also cater to the needs of businesses looking to operate sustainably.
Economic benefits
The construction of Kestrel Park is expected to have a significant positive impact on the local economy. With the creation of up to 185 jobs, the development will provide much-needed employment opportunities for residents. Additionally, the availability of high-quality industrial space is anticipated to attract new businesses to the area, further stimulating economic growth.
Shaun Higginbottom, the business investment manager for Enterprising Barnsley, remarked on the demand for such facilities, stating, "Kestrel Park is delivering some much-appreciated, high-quality accommodation to meet high demand in Barnsley. We often have enquiries for smaller units like these coming from both expanding local companies and inward investors."
As construction progresses, the Kestrel Park business park is poised to become a key player in Barnsley’s economic landscape, supporting local businesses and contributing to the region’s growth.
