Update: January 24th 2026:

We have written to the Planning Department of Sheffield Council to ask if the Government Inspectors report (following the evidence hearings) is close to being published, and what the timetable is. Once we have a reply we will let all villagers know.

Here’s my letter, sent January 24th:

Hi John, (CC Janet Ridler)
Happy New Year. I hope you’re looking forward to the challenges and opportunities of 2026!
The villagers here in Wharncliffe Side are keen to know if the Government Inspectors report on the suitability of the Horse Field (NWS31) is close to being published? We appreciated the opportunity to attend the hearing and give our evidence last October, and are keen to read what the Government Inspectors thought of our evidence, and whether the ensuing months have changed your perspective on removal of the green belt protection from our beloved village field. Perhaps you could let me have an update when you have a moment, and then I can let our community know where we are. 
Kind regards
David Thornton
Wharncliffe Side Let’s Breathe Group / Villager

Also – note the following information:

Just before Christmas Sheffield Council published a new document called “Compensation Improvement Opportunities” that looked at the possible mitigations that could be introduced if they went ahead and built on the Horse Field, which is considered on pages four and five. The report recognises the following:

” Site is well used and valued by the local community as an informal area of natural greenspace, with formal and informal paths. It also provides connections to Glen Howe Park/Wood, Storth Lane and areas of Wharncliffe Side south of Tinker Brook”.

To read the full document follow this link and click on the first report listed. https://www.localplanservices.co.uk/_files/ugd/017f5b_c4544a11ce4e412f9cf21552da90af32.pdf

End of update.

Sheffield City Council’s consultation period has now ended, and all material will be forwarded to Government Inspectors for review. The Inspectors will call people to “evidence hearings” in the Autumn, and after that they will produce their interim report. A full and final decision is not expected until in 2026. Keep in touch with this page, and our FACEBOOK page for the latest information. Thank you for your support so far.

“We believe that the proposed plan to build 103 houses on NWS31 (The horse field) is commercially unviable and would destroy important wildlife, harm local biodiversity and distrupt cherished community space”.

NEW REPORT BELOW
Here’s a new report by Villager Daniel Clarke: A review and assesment of the Horse field site for development. you may like to use this in your personal response.

Site NWS31 – Review of SCC Suitability Assessment & Planning Appraisal June ’25Download

This website has been created to assist Wharncliffe Side villagers create effective resistance to the proposed removal of Green Belt protection and the plan to build 103 houses on the horse field (known as NWS31 in the plan) in Wharncliffe Side.

Use the links below to access all the website sections, or the menu at the top of the page.