This is unfortunate but it is, sadly, quite understandable.

For tenants were told some time ago of the standard and quality of work which would be carried out to their properties. And as they saw this being delivered to neighbours, they had every right to expect to receive the same treatment themselves.

Now, the money is beginning to dry up and promises are being broken.
Those in charge of this project should have calculated from the outset what they could and could not deliver.

To do otherwise smacks of mismanagement and even incompetence.
In the context of the Decent Homes programme, a boundary wall or the height of a fence are small and minor details. But to a tenant they are symbolic and fundamental.

What's more, promises to tenants are key to the good management of Sheffield's council estates. To break a promise is to undermine the trust which is vital to create the harmony needed to ensure these housing estates function to everyone's satisfaction.

Change of attitude is long overdue

WELL done to Sheffield council for admitting it got it wrong over its policy concerning Saturday burials, which were acceptable only if the deceased was a Muslim.

We fully understand the Islamic rule about swift burials but to slavishly make exceptions only on religious grounds is to encourage division at a time when every effort is directed at breaking down barriers.

And what is particularly reassuring is the manner in which the local authority has conceded that mistakes had been made.

There have been times in the recent history of the city council when this would simply not have been contemplated. This change of attitude, as well as change of mind, is long overdue.