New promise Barnsley will not be held back in face of challenges – here’s what’s planned

The new council plan describes the local authority as ‘bold, brave and innovative’, as a report outlined its priorities for the next three years.

Its targets are set around four main themes, ensuring the borough remains healthy, learning, growing and sustainable.

Health chiefs aim to reduce inequality, help people to feel safe and supported, and ensure residents can live independently in good mental and physical health.

A joint ‘health on the high street’ scheme between the council and NHS, which saw a diagnostic centre in the Glass Works shopping centre, is set to be expanded.

The scheme offers an alternative to visiting Barnsley Hospital for diagnostic testing, and more outpatient services are set to be moved from the hospital to the Alhambra Centre in the next three years.

The council’s education department aims to ensure that children in Barnsley are given the best start in life.

Targeted support will be provided to those who need additional help or for children who may be at risk of being excluded.

A further £1m will be earmarked to provide additional support for every young person to catch up with English and maths.

Skilled youth workers will offer 20 different activities at the new YouthZone, which is under construction on Schwäbisch Gmünd Way.

A national centre of excellence for digital and artificial intelligencetechnologies will be established, to prepare businesses for the future, and a pathways to work programme will prepare young people for employment.

Under the sustainability banner, walking and cycling will be encouraged with schemes such as the A61 active travel scheme.

BMBC is also one of the first councils in the country to adopt Microsoft Copilot, using AI technology to simplify digital systems.

Sarah Norman, chief executive of Barnsley Council, said: “Our council plan sets out our journey over the next three years where we’ll continue to innovate, collaborate and transform our services to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.”

The draft council plan will be presented to full council for approval on July 25.