Funding secured for Barnsley town centre revamp

The face of Barnsley town centre is set to be radically changed thanks to a new multi-million pound leisure complex, which will be fully funded by the local council.

Having already committed £50M to fund the first phase of the scheme, Barnsley Council has now committed to fund the remainder of the scheme, bringing its total investment to deliver this transformational development to £120M.

Leisure giants Cineworld and Superbowl have both been confirmed as anchor tenants with the scheme expected to be completed by May 2020. It is expected that most of the new buildings will be steel-framed.

Known as The Glass Works, the 3.8 hectare development will provide a 54,500m² family-led offering, comprising a range of new shops, restaurants, multiplex cinema and bowling, alongside a brand-new home for the town’s historic markets, a central library and a public realm.

Barnsley Council Leader Councillor Sir Stephen Houghton said: “We are delighted to announce that we will be funding the delivery of The Glass Works, the new and exciting leisure and retail scheme in Barnsley town centre.

“This has been a priority for the council for many years now and we are finally moving forward and giving Barnsley what it deserves; a vibrant town centre.”