Ambulance stuck as key Sheffield road introduces new cycle lane

In the video, an emergency worker is seen having to remove two sets of bollards that block off the new cycle lane on the A61 Shalesmoor to allow the ambulance to get through the congestion, before getting back into the vehicle.

The footage shows a big build up of traffic on the busy city centre road which has been reduced to one lane for motor vehicles between Shalesmoor roundabout and the Corporation Street roundabout.

The fully segregated cycle path was first opened on Sunday, July 5 as part of the council’s temporary changes to roads and footpaths in the city, in response to more people cycling and walking during the Covid-19 crisis.

While the new cycle lane has been welcomed by cyclists, some business owners and motorists have expressed their concerns about reducing the number of driving lanes.

In Kelham Island, Ball Street and Alma Street have also been temporarily closed to motor vehicles.

Peter Harrold, co-owner of H Harrold & Sons Ltd locksmiths on Shalesmoor, claimed the plans had been badly thought out and rushed through with no public consultation, after pictures showed long queues on the road.

“Whoever’s designed this has never been in business, I’m sure, because it’s ridiculous,” he said.

“We’re just coming back from lockdown and if they want to close us for good this is the way to go about it.”

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