Changes to land/tree felling

Dear National Highways,

RE: Urgent Concerns Regarding Land Alterations Adjacent to the Motorway at the walk, Birdwell, barnsley

I am writing as a resident living opposite a field at the walk, Birdwell, Barnsley which directly backs onto the motorway corridor before j36 of the m1. I wish to raise serious concerns regarding significant changes currently taking place on this land and the potential impact these may have on the safety and integrity of the motorway network.

Over recent months, substantial alterations have been made to the site. Areas of grassland have been flattened and covered with gravel, multiple vehicle access routes have been created, and a caravan has recently been placed on the land which appears to be occupied on a residential basis.

Most concerningly, this morning I witnessed two truckloads of earth and/or waste material being deposited onto the field. The material appeared to be used to raise and level sections of the land. I do not know the nature of the material, whether it is suitable for this purpose, or whether the necessary permissions, licences, or engineering assessments have been obtained. I have video footage of these deliveries and the works being carried out.

In addition, a very large mature tree has recently been felled and is currently being cut up with chainsaws. Lots of other trees were also taken down last week. I also have video footage of this activity.

There have also been multiple fires on the land over a prolonged period, with the Fire Service having attended on several occasions to my knowledge. These repeated incidents, alongside the recent earthworks and tree removal, have heightened my concerns regarding the safety and management of the site.

Given the close proximity of this land to the motorway, I am extremely concerned about:

• The stability of the land and any motorway embankments.

• Whether the importation of soil, waste, or other fill materials could increase the risk of landslips or erosion.

• The impact of raising or altering ground levels on drainage patterns and surface water run-off.

• Potential flooding risks to neighbouring land and any drainage systems associated with the motorway.

• The removal of mature trees and vegetation that may previously have contributed to slope stability and water management.

• The possibility that works are being undertaken without appropriate engineering oversight or consideration of the impact on adjacent strategic infrastructure.

I appreciate that some of these matters may fall within the remit of the local authority or other agencies. However, due to the site's immediate proximity to the motorway, I would be grateful if National Highways could investigate whether these activities pose any risk to the strategic road network or associated infrastructure and advise whether any permissions or consents are required.

I have photographs and video footage documenting a number of these activities and would be happy to provide these should they assist with any investigation.

I would be grateful if you could acknowledge receipt of this correspondence, advise whether this matter falls within your remit, and provide any reference number associated with an investigation or referral.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to hearing from you.