Calls for considerate parking at Langsett

Highways England, Yorkshire Water, South Yorkshire Police and Barnsley Council are working together to tackle dangerous parking close to a popular south Yorkshire reservoir.  

The organisations are urging visitors to park responsibly and show extra care after reports and complaints of vehicles illegally parking along the A616, which runs close to Langsett Reservoir.   

Kim Taylor, Programme Development Team Leader at Highways England, who manage and maintain the A616 said: “We’re unfortunately seeing more irresponsible parking along the verges and for the wrong reason in laybys which puts every other road user in serious danger, as well as themselves.  

“One of our gritters was unable to get through in one instance after two vehicles were parked inconsiderately on both sides of the road. We understand that people will want to visit this beautiful area of Yorkshire as restrictions ease, but we want everyone to be safe and consider the safety of others.”  

Highways England and Yorkshire Water have installed temporary signage along the A616 and are planning for longer term improvements for the footpaths and cycleways in this area to add to the boundary walk, as well as maximising available parking spaces.

Gaynor Craigie, Head of Land and Property at Yorkshire Water, added: “The easing of lockdown restrictions is welcome and the prospect of meeting up with friends and family outside in larger groups is a relief for many. We are expecting open spaces to be particularly busy now restrictions have been eased and we enter a period of school holidays and bank holiday weekends. 

"It is important people are considerate of local communities and understand the dangers of parking illegally at any of our sites, but particularly at Langsett where cars parked on the side of the road can pose a significant danger to other road users. We will have colleagues on site in the coming weeks to help visitors with parking and ensure they can enjoy our reservoir safely.” 

If meeting friends and family outdoors this Easter, you should look to minimise your travel where possible. For example, you should avoid making unnecessary trips and combine trips where possible. 

If you do need to travel, you should plan ahead, travel at quiet times, regularly sanitise your hands, wear a face covering unless exempt and, where possible, keep your distance to ensure you and others can travel safely. 

If visitors do visit the Yorkshire beauty spot, either use the designated car parks at Langsett Reservoir or Langsett Barn, or turn back if they are full. 

Barnsley Neighbourhood Inspector Rebecca Richardson said: “When visiting Barnsley’s beauty spots we urge you to think about considerate parking. 

“Road safety is a priority for South Yorkshire Police and we will challenge inconsiderate parking. Parking in non-designated areas and on grass verges creates dangers for motorists and pedestrians; vehicles can restrict people’s views of a road they are crossing and cause drivers to have to move quickly to avoid collisions.” 

Sarah Norman, Chief Executive of Barnsley Council, concluded: “We want everyone to be able to use outdoor spaces safely, particularly now restrictions are easing, and people are enjoying more time visiting local beauty spots. 

“I would urge anyone who plans to visit the reservoir or any other popular greenspaces over the coming weeks to consider where they park to protect themselves and other road users. We have plenty of beautiful greens spaces across our borough, so if an area does look busy, there are always alternative places to visit. 

“Residents are asked that when they head outdoors to be mindful of the communities they are visiting, try to stay local where possible when planning activities and remember to follow the hands, face, space guidance to protect themselves and their families while they’re outdoors.” 

Highways England urges drivers to plan their journeys before setting off, follow Government advice, and visit https://www.yorkshirewater.com/things-to-do/langsett-reservoir/ to find our more information about where to park for free.