Persistent vandalism hampers reopening efforts of Dearne Valley bypass after arson attack

Barnsley Council said it was keen to restore traffic to the Dearne Valley Bypass at Goldthorpe, which was shut after a car was set alight in the Lockwood Lane underpass beneath it.

The council wants to thoroughly inspect the roof of the passageway but said new fencing across the entrance had been repeatedly vandalised.

“Due to the continued vandalism, it has not been possible to install the temporary internal structural supports to allow us to begin the testing phase safely,” said a spokesperson.

“We are working to repair and further brace the fencing this week and secure the site again to allow the internal props to be installed without risk of damage.”

BMBC appealed to road users to be patient and said police would be carrying out extra patrols in the area.

Anyone with information about the vandalism should contact [email protected].