Concern after 'people seen dealing drugs and having sex in Sheffield street'

One resident, who did not want to be named, said two storage containers had been left on Verdon Street for 'months' and after a playground was demolished and the area had become a 'hub' for drugs and crime.

The man, 31, said: "I live in a second-floor flat on Verdon Street and I have seen all sorts from my balcony. I have seen people having sex in the green area behind the containers because they are creating a screen.

"I've lived in Burngreave for 15 years and it's getting worse. There's no police patrolling and we are seeing things coming back that we haven't seen for years. It's very worrying."

The resident said he used to use the green area next to the containers but added that it had now become a 'no go area' and that Burngreave had become a 'hub for drugs and crime'

"What we are seeing is that the trouble from in and around Spital Hill is spilling down on to Verdon Street because the containers are creating an enclosed space for criminals," he added.

"I have written to the council about it because it needs sorting urgently - it's very dangerous.

"They have said they are going to clean up the mess but the containers need moving - they've been there for months."

The resident said the council had also suggested erecting a lamppost on Verdon Street, but, while admitting funding cuts would make it difficult, he said CCTV would be the better option.

Janet Sharpe, director of housing and neighbourhoods service said: “We’ve been made aware of a complaint from a member of the public about some alleged anti-social behaviour near the Council’s portable containers on Verdon Street, Burngreave.

“We will always do everything we can to make sure that residents feel safe and secure. In this instance, the area’s neighbourhood manager has spoken with the resident to say that the Council’s warden service will make additional patrols to reassure any residents who are concerned.

"He also advised the resident to contact the Police non-emergency number, 101, if they see anything in the future which needs to be reported immediately.”

South Yorkshire Police has also been contacted for a comment.