Crystal Peaks traders struggling following Sheffield Supertram disruption after sinkhole discovery
Footfall at shopping centre has dropped drastically, say councillors, with traders worried about their survival
Shops and market stalls in Crystal Peaks, Sheffield, are struggling because of the suspension of Supertram services after a sinkhole was found under tram tracks two months ago.
The blue route between Gleadless Townend and Halfway has been halted since a 19th-century well and mineshaft were discovered beneath the tram tracks on Birley Lane in August.
Sheffield councillors who raised the issue at a meeting demanded to know when the repair work will be finished.
Beighton ward Councillor Stuart Wallace said in a question to the transport, regeneration and climate policy committee on October 21 that Crystal Peaks Shopping Centre manager, Lee Greenwood, told him footfall had fallen drastically, despite a replacement bus service being provided.
He added: “Furthermore, Mr Greenwood informed me that numerous retail shops within the shopping centre had reported large reductions in takings and several of whom were now worried if they could continue without the customers who previously used the tram to get to the shopping centre.”
He asked if South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), who have run Supertram since it was taken under public control in 2024, had announced a date for services to resume.
Fellow Beighton ward councillor, Ian Horner, stressed the point in the meeting, saying that market traders in Crystal Peaks have been suffering.
He said: “Market traders have to make money in the run-up to Christmas to survive the winter.
“The replacement bus service is not adequate and bus stops are not by the tram stops.”
Coun Horner said that so many people have switched to the 120 buses that they are often full and don’t stop at every stop, stranding some passengers.
Committee chair Coun Alexi Dimond replied: “It is our understanding that investigations are still ongoing with no timescales identified for reopening. We will continue to engage with SYMCA to understand timescales for reopening.
“We note your important point that the Crystal Peaks shopping centre footfallhas been badly hit by the loss of the tram.
“This demonstrates just how important public transport is for access to retail and leisure; I reflect that some may overestimate how many people come to Crystal Peaks and other retail centres by car.”