Objectors to building of Hermes 'Colossus' parcels plant near Barnsley throw missiles at construction workers

Barnsley South Neighbourhood Policing Team appealed on social media for objectors not to attempt to gain access to the site after reports that contractors were pelted with missiles while driving to work.

Winvic Construction Ltd are currently carrying out development works just off junction 36 of the M1 at Hoyland Common, as part of the Hoyland West masterplan, which will see a new Hermes parcels hub named Colossus and 100 homes build in the area.

In Barnsley’s Local Plan, adopted in 2019, land to the north of Hoyland Common was allocated for residential and employment use, land to the west of Hoyland and Hoyland Common was allocated for employment and residential use, and land to the south of Hoyland was allocated for residential development.

A spokesperson for Barnsley South Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “It has been brought to our attention that some individuals who object to this development have made attempts to gain access to the construction site to make their feelings known.

“We area also aware that some individuals have also taken to throwing missiles at the workers from passing cars. Enquiries are ongoing to identify those involved.

“Whilst we understand that feelings may be running high around this development, and we absolutely respect an individual’s right to make a peaceful protest, I must stress that no persons should be entering the site unauthorised, or purposely attempting to impede operatives in carrying out their work .

“To do so could present a clear danger to themselves and others.

“We have liaised with senior engineers at the site, and we will be carrying out targeted patrols of the location in the coming days.”

When finished, Colossus will handle 1.3 million parcels per day and will be one of the largest hubs of its kind in Europe. It will create 1,300 new jobs - but opponents collected 1,700 signatures objecting to the plans before they were granted planning permission.