Progress made on securing a safer road crossing for Langsett

Marie Tidball MP, Member of Parliament for Penistone and Stocksbridge, brought together local organisations and community groups in Langsett, to explore how to make the A616 safer to cross and improve active travel links. The meeting followed concerns raised by a constituent, at a recent advice surgery.

Marie met representatives from the Little Don Trail Group and the Upper Don Trail Group; who have spent years campaigning for a safer way to cross the A616, the main road running through Langsett. She was joined by Yorkshire Water, National Highways, Barnsley Council, Bradfield Parish Council, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and the Peak District National Park.

The discussion focused on opportunities to improve safety and strengthen access to active travel routes. A key opportunity, identified during Marie’s visit, is putting in a new crossing near Langsett village, and associated safety measure, as well as reopening the underpass along the A616, which is currently inaccessible, and reconnecting it to local amenities.

Marie is also requesting options, from partner organisations, to upgrade the pathway and bridleway between Langsett and the Little Don Bridleway, a route frequently used by families, dog walkers and riders across the area. She will continue working with local organisations on detailed proposals and will keep constituents updated as plans progress.

Marie Tidball MP said:

“The lack of a safe crossing at Langsett was first raised with me at a constituency advice surgery, so it was important to visit the site, with all the relevant organisations, to see first-hand what the issue is and how we can move forward.“Speaking to walkers, horse riders and local groups showed how much safer and more enjoyable this area could be with better crossings and stronger links between active travel routes. This is a beautiful part of our constituency, that I’ve been visiting since I was a child, that leads into the Peak District. Local people should feel confident travelling through it, whether they’re walking, wheeling or on horseback.“Following the meeting, we now have several productive ways to move things forward. I’ll keep working closely with community groups and local organisations to make sure everyone has the chance to shape the next steps.”