Opinion divided on major Sheffield road closure for social distancing
News that one of the busiest roads in Sheffield city centre is to close temporarily to help social distancing and encourage walking and cycling has divided opinion.
Sheffield City Council has announced Pinstone Street will be closed to traffic in the next fortnight, with footpaths widened between Cross Burgess Street and Furnival Gate. Upper Charles Street will also be pedestrianised alongside part of Division Street from the Frog and Parrot pub to the Great Gatsby bar.
It is not yet known if the changes will become permanent as the council aims to become carbon neutral by 2030, and encourages residents to make lasting active lifestyle changes following the lockdown.
Ben Curran, Labour Councillor for Walkley tweeted: “Great to see Pinstone Street and Division Street will be pedestrianised to promote active travel.
“Thanks for your leadership on this issue @Bob_of_Hills [Councillor Robert Johnson]. I look forward to future announcements!”
Tom Hunt was also enthusiastic about the changes.
He tweeted: “Good work from @SheffCouncil who have said that Pinstone St is next to go traffic free. Keep the announcements coming!”
But Tim Rutland said it was “Another nail in the coffin for the town centre.”
Sam Millington said: “Can’t wait for every single bus to start using Arundel Gate with the few bus stops they have.” He also questioned how social distancing would work if that was to be the case.
Sean Ferguson added: “I think the council are going to be shocked when most people choose to stay away from the city centre anyway.”