THE astro turf football pitches at Dorothy Hyman Sports Centre will no longer be in use.
The complex - which is leased by Barnsley Premier Leisure from the council on a 50-year term - had been popular with football groups in the borough.
Jason Crawford, who tried to book the football pitch, said: "I rang up but apparently the pitches are not in use as it's been deemed a safety hazard.
"Surely this facility should be an integral part of our community?"
Tim Wilson, chief executive of BPL, confirmed the football facility will no longer be available.
He said: "Substantial investment would have been required by the local authority to replace the surface.
"The council are under extreme financial pressure, therefore the decision was jointly taken to close this area.
"There is substantial alternative provision in the local area at the Advanced Learning Centres, so participation in sports should not be affected."
