Work progressing well on Barnsley's new Youth Activity Park

The opening of Barnsley's new Youth Activity Park has moved another step closer after the installation of the skate park bowls and pump track was completed.

Situated next to the Base71 Youth Zone on Schwäbisch Gmünd Way, the site was granted planning permission in March 2025 and will include a skate park suitable for all levels, a beginner-friendly bike track, new active travel routes, and inclusive play spaces including a parkour area. 

Council representatives joined staff from the contractors Triton Construction for a site tour earlier this year, where they talked about the exciting plans for the park. 

The project, which has been supported by the government's Levelling Up Fund and almost half a million pounds from Sport England, has been co-designed in consultation with local children and young people. It is expected to open in spring 2026. 

Councillor Ashley Peace, Cabinet spokesperson for Children's Services, added: "Our vision for the Great Childhoods Ambition is to provide activities, opportunities and experiences for all our children and young people in Barnsley.

"Listening to our children and young people and acting on their ideas helps shape future opportunities that truly reflect their needs, creativity and aspirations, that's why we're continuing to invest in facilities to make that a reality for them.

"Our free bus travel scheme for under 18s and the proximity of the park to the interchange means they will be able to get to the site for free. With the Base71 Youth Zone also sitting adjacent to the park, the area will become a hub of activity and a safe space for our children and young people to connect with their friends. We can't wait to see it open next year." 

Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: "This is an exciting project which will offer something new for our children and young people to get involved in and enjoy. 

"It's another example of how we've worked with the public, private and voluntary sectors to create a space which will enable local children and young people to get active, have fun, and build healthy habits for life.

"Our Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy includes a mission to empower all of Barnsley’s communities to thrive, and we hope this facility will set our younger residents on a path to future prosperity."

Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Sport England's Executive Director for Place, said: “It’s great to see the progress on Barnsley’s youth activity park - one that has been co-designed with the children and young people of Barnsley. That’s what our work in place is all about - giving local communities a voice and letting them shape the solutions to getting active.    

“Our work in Barnsley goes beyond this park – we are committed to the area, partnering and collaborating with trusted organisations and the local community, to create more opportunities for people to be active so that the people of Barnsley can lead healthier lives for longer.” 

The Great Childhoods Ambition is our commitment to improving the lives and futures of our children and young people. We'll support them to have a great childhood and ensure they feel they belong, and can explore, dream, grow and connect. For more information, visit barnsley.gov.uk/greatchildhoods.