ONE OF Elsecar's biggest employers is in negotiations to move to Ashroyd Business Park.

Dawson MMP of Wath Road, look set to relocate to the controversial Hoyland industrial estate after nearly 20 years in the village.

The washing machine importers wanted to move nearer the M1 and will occupy half of the 50,000sqft unit.

Forge vice-chairman Robin Franklin was concerned the move would take jobs away from the area.

He said: "These people are selling it and turning it into houses and then moving up to Dearne Valley Parkway which is a spit up the road.

"They're just doing it to make money. They have not tried to sell it as they bought it - as a commercial property."

The company were granted outline planning permission to knock down the factory and build houses last June.

Land registry documents show there are no covenants stating the land must be sold for commercial use but some residents feel houses would be a waste.