TARGETS to build new housing across Barnsley have not been hit.

A report, which looks into quarters one, two and three of the financial year, recorded ‘red’ ratings which signifies anticipated builds have not been reached.

The third quarter’s 164 homes beat the second’s 152 and the opener’s 154, but all missed the pre-set 225 target.

Quarter four’s figures are due to be revealed in the summer.

“The decline in net completions is due in part to national conditions, deriving from inflation and mortgage conditions,” the report said.

“This has seen some stability in recent months with interest rates slowly declining.

“The change in government over last summer and changes to the planning system may result in a more buoyant economy moving forwards, translating to additional housing.

“House building remains one of the council’s key objectives – work is underway to unlock problematic sites and there is a clear narrative from central government that house building is a key component to economic growth.”