Reader's letter - 'I have my doubts' on planned Exchange Street skateboard and BMX facility

Are you sure that's wise Sir? is the question Sgt Wilson raised after Capt Mannering decided on a course of action that usually ended in disaster.

This came to mind today when I heard that Exchange Street is going to have a skateboard and BMX facility.

Speaking as an individual I have my doubts on this proposal.

I may be a grumpy old so-and-so bemused by skateboards, especially when I see them accelerating down Division Streeet into Barkers Pool or clobbering the base of that unappealing edifice in Hartshead, or in the vicinity of the finest piece of public art in Sheffield for decades – the Women of Steel in the vicinity of Holly St and the City Hall.

Exchange Street is arguably the most direct route from our hotel quarter into the city centre.

According to the artist’s impression on Twitter, this access will only be available by a narrow corridor by the frontage of the retail premises on Exchange Street.

So what's the real reason for this proposal? The need for footfall, the attraction of the freelance graffiti facility that's blighted the fine artwork recollecting the multifaceted history of the city? Or to avoid skateboarders utilising the spacious and fresh-looking Fitzalan Square regeneration?

I wonder what the reaction would have been in the Castlegation Public Consultation?

Ron Clayton

The Bunker

S6