Sheffield neighbourhood divided over plan to build new nursery

Plans have been submitted to Sheffield Council to build a Little Einsteins Nursery and Pre School, at a vacant greenfield site located off Broomfield Road, in Stocksbridge.

In a statement with the plans GLH Architects, on behalf of the applicant, said the aim was to increase nursery provision in the area.

They added: “In light of this, significant weight should be given to the need for this development and its importance in the local community.

"The proposals would not give rise to any significant material harm and the provision of early years facilities would accord with the general aims and objectives of the relevant development plan policies.”

The nursery will create eight full-time and four part-time jobs.

There has been more than 147 comments on the proposals – 69 objections and 78 are in support.

Those objecting had concerns including about parking, increase in noise and environmental impacts.

A local resident living on Broomfield Road said: “There is insufficient parking space proposed by the nursery which will mean that parents will inevitably park on Broomfield Road which is already narrow at best of times with no footpaths.

“Pedestrian safety will be compromised in terms of the increase in traffic and people parking their vehicles with no knowledge of the local area.

“We are greatly concerned about the increased noise pollution and disruption that the nursery will bring to what is considered to be a quiet area.

“The external material specification of the nursery is not in keeping with the surrounding buildings with certain houses in the locality being of historic nature.

“It is disappointing to note how many people outside of the area appear to support the development and as such it will not affect them in the slightest.”

Supporters said the provision is needed and it will provide jobs.

A resident from nearby Viola Bank said: “I support this as I feel a nursery that takes babies is needed in this side of the village as the other one is a fair distance away and is the only other nursery who takes young children and think it will be a nice thing to bring to the area.

“As for congestion not all parents will come at the same time and will be there for like 10 minutes at the most for drop and pickups.”