Extra measures and patrols to tackle littering, anti-social behaviour and crime at Sheffield park

The measures have been announced by Sheffield District Council today after shameful scenes of littering and antisocial behaviour as revellers flooded the park last month. Police are still investigating a serious assault and a rape which also took place there.

The rules were relaxed in March as part of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown, but a huge clean-up operation had to be mounted after huge crowds gathered and left the grass covered in litter.

Detectives are continuing to investigate a report than an 18-year-old woman was raped after large crowds converged in Endcliffe Park on March 29.

A 20-year-old man remains in hospital for serious head injuries following an assault two days later.

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A council spokesman said most people are adhering to social distancing and the rule of six restrictions, as well as treating the park with respect by getting rid of rubbish responsibly.

However, following busy periods large amounts of litter are still being left behind and there have been issues with noise and urinating in the park.

“We want make sure visitors can enjoy spending time there in a clean and safe environment, “ the spokesman added.

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To manage these issues staff from Sheffield Parks and Countryside, the council’s enforcement teams and wardens have put in extra measures and are working with South Yorkshire Police to provide extra presence, advice and enforcement. This includes:

The driveway carpark closed daily at 5pm with signage added

Toilet opening hours increased to 6.45pm everyday

Covid marshals continue to patrol and advise in good weather and early evenings

Enforcement officers will support the area when possible

Extra signage about disposing of waste responsibly

Additional bins and more frequent emptying

Parking services will monitor the area for parking infringements

South Yorkshire Police will provide additional presence based on weather forecasts and intelligence reports

Ruth Bell, Head of Parks and Countryside at Sheffield City Council, said: “It was great to see so many people enjoying the sunshine in our parks during the first bout of hot weather earlier this month, but the scenes the morning after were not so pleasant.

“Our hard-working staff and volunteers did an amazing job clearing up, and the public reaction that followed from local people was very encouraging.

“We’ve stepped up measures and are doing everything possible to keep on top of waste issues and we have already seen a significant improvement since then. The extra changes we’ve put in place along with our partnership work with the local policing team will hopefully contribute to continued improvements in the park.

“We ask everyone to take pride in our wonderful green spaces and show respect to our staff and other park visitors by doing their bit to help us keep them looking lovely for everyone to enjoy.”

Supt Simon Verrall of South Yorkshire Police said: “As lockdown restrictions lift, we want everyone to make the most of what our fantastic city has to offer, including our parks and green spaces, but I am reminding people to please do this responsibly.

“Our officers are working really hard alongside Sheffield City Council to ensure measures are in place to prevent the scenes in Endcliffe Park happening again.

“We have already implemented some changes and this work will continue in the coming months. You will continue to see officers on patrol in local parks and I’d encourage you to stop and speak to them, raise any concerns you might have and work with us.”

South Yorkshire Police are also working to address concerns over anti-social behaviour and drug supply. The local neighbourhood policing team are in consultation with residents, local councillors and parks team to develop disruption plans and longer term interventions.