Exciting plans unveiled for new community facility at Rabbit Ings in Royston

Barnsley Council is bringing forward plans for a new multi‑purpose facility at Rabbit Ings Country Park in Royston under our Principal Towns and Local Centres Investment Programme.

This would be a major investment designed to support local people, strengthen community involvement, and enhance the visitor experience at one of the borough’s most treasured country parks.

Our ongoing Principal Towns and Local Centres Investment Programme has already put more than £11 million into improving high streets and community spaces across Barnsley, with more investment planned over the coming years.

Rabbit Ings currently has limited community facilities, and we want to improve what is available so sports clubs and community groups can enjoy the country park even more.

Under the new proposals, which are subject to planning and funding approval, the existing facilities would be replaced with a sustainable, multi‑functional building.

The proposed facility would include:

·      Modern sports changing rooms

·      A community classroom space

·      A design that complements the surrounding landscape

·      Replacement parking spaces to ensure there is minimal loss of parking spaces for park users

We are working with partners to establish arrangements for managing the facility after the works are completed.

A set of CGI images has been produced to help people visualise what the proposed building will look like and how it will complement the surrounding landscape.

Ahead of a planning application being submitted, we are hosting a series of community engagement events at Royston Library so residents can see the proposals for themselves and discuss them with our project team.

Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “Rabbit Ings is a beautiful, well‑loved spot and an important asset for Royston.

“This proposal represents a major investment that will give local people access to better facilities, support our grassroots sports teams, and create new opportunities for learning, health and community activity.

“We’re committed to putting local people at the heart of our Principal Towns and Local Centres Investment Programme, and I encourage everyone to come along to the engagement events, take a look at the plans and CGI images, and share their views.

“Your feedback will help us ensure the facility meets the needs of the whole community.”

Community engagement events will be held at Royston Library at the following times:

·      Thursday 5 February from 4pm to 7pm

·      Saturday 7 February from 9.30am to 12.30pm

·      Tuesday 10 February from 11am to 2pm

You can also have your say in our online survey.

The new hub would support wider ambitions for a Healthy Barnsley, helping more people enjoy outdoor spaces, cultural experiences and leisure opportunities.

It would also strengthen our aims for a Learning Barnsley by enabling more school and youth groups to visit, learn about the natural environment, and build social connections.

You can find out more about our borough-wide investment on our Principal Towns and Local Village Centres webpage.