Construction has begun on a £12 million industrial development in Barnsley, set to deliver more than 77,000 sq ft of commercial space and generate around 185 jobs.

Developer Carnell Management Services (CMS) is leading the project, named Kestrel Park, on a site just off Junction 36 of the M1 near Hoyland. The scheme is backed by Barnsley Council’s Property Investment Fund and the South Yorkshire Jessica Fund, with £3 million from the South Yorkshire Investment Zone Funding.

Due for completion in early 2026, Kestrel Park will offer seven units ranging from 3,000 to 21,500 sq ft, built to BREEAM ‘Very Good’ standards. The high-specification space will include solar panels, EV charging points, cycle parking and fully fitted office facilities.

Managing director of CMS Martyn Carnell said: “Our latest development, Kestrel Park, reinforces our commitment to investing in our local area and follows other successful projects such as the Nexus industrial park at Capitol Park, Junction 37, which we completed in 2019.

“As always we’re focused on strong ESG credentials for our sustainable developments and aim to deliver high-spec industrial and trade units suitable for a wide range of small businesses.”

Enterprising Barnsley business investment manager Shaun Higginbottom said: “Kestrel Park is delivering some much-appreciated, high-quality accommodation to meet high demand in the Barnsley borough. We often have enquiries for smaller units like these coming from both expanding local companies and inward investors.

“It’s great to see a commercial property developer like CMS continuing to invest with confidence in the borough - recognising Barnsley as a very attractive location for business.”

The site, located within the South Yorkshire Investment Zone, is part of a long-term strategy to attract business growth and investment in the region.

Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture said: “Barnsley is open for business, so we’re pleased to see work starting on this site, which will provide much needed and high-quality space, and strengthens our excellent relationship with CMS. It’s fantastic that they believe Barnsley is a place where businesses can invest and thrive.

“The site is in an excellent location with great links to the M1 at Junction 36, and we’re looking forward to seeing the site develop, encourage business growth, provide new employment opportunities for our residents and boost our local economy."

The units are being marketed by joint letting agents Knight Frank and Smiths Chartered Surveyors.

Rebecca Schofield, partner at Knight Frank in Sheffield and head of Yorkshire Industrial and Logistics, said: "The seven units, ranging in size from 3,000 to 21,500 sq ft, provide units for the smaller end of the market where there is more limited availability."