Statement issued over bonfires and graffiti at historic former pub in Sheffield

The Plough Inn on Sandygate Lane is where the rules of modern football as we know it were drawn up – making it an important part of Sheffield’s sporting heritage – and it stands opposite Hallam FC’s ground, which is the oldest in the world.

The building is earmarked for demolition by Spacepad Construction, which wants to replace it with eight homes, but a ruling is still awaited after more than 170 people objected to the plans.

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In recent weeks, members of the campaign group Save the Plough and the Sporting Heritage of Sandygate have complained about rubbish being dumped in the grounds and numerous bonfires being lit there.

Graffiti then appeared on hoarding outside the pub, declaring in large, black lettering: “Apparently fly tipping welcome but no building or working.”

Peter Duff, from the campaign group, said the site had been left resembling a ‘rubbish tip’.

“Stuff’s being dumped there. There are cars on the forceourt and an old caravan. It’s generally a really scruffy mess,” he added.

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“People living nearby are annoyed about the number of bonfires there have been during lockdown, because the smoke meant some neighbours couldn’t even use their gardens or open their windows.”

Sheffield Council has now responded to their concerns.

Councillor Bob Johnson, cabinet member for transport and sustainability, said: “With regards to the lighting of bonfires and unsightly graffiti, the Environmental Protection team has investigated this and are working with the site owner to resolve these ongoing issues.

“The owner is now aware that fires are not permitted and is making every effort to prevent fires in the future. We understand that the owner has also made efforts to clean up the graffiti. We have found no evidence of fly tipping on the site, nor that any materials have been brought onto the site illegally.

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“We will continue to monitor this and on determination of the outstanding planning application, the measures needed to keep the site safe and tidy will be reviewed."

Spacepad Construction declined to comment.