Threats to Upper Don trail as house builders change plans in the Peak District
The Upper Don Trail Trust has criticised a house builder for scaling down plans to provide a connection to a trail linking Sheffield city centre with the Peak District.
Bloor Homes was due to create a riverside cycle-footway as part of its plans to build 427 new homes in Deepcar.
It would have provided a connection for the Upper Don Trail, which the trust hopes will help restore heritage and wildlife through Sheffield.
However, Bloor is now asking Sheffield Council if it can go back on initial agreements to reduce the cycle-footway and scrap a footbridge.
The company said it needed to make the changes, as there was now not enough space for the route as first thought.
They also estimate the new layout will save them at least £5.1 million in landfill costs.
Chris Bell, of the trust, said the group finds the new plans and justification unacceptable and asked them to make a number of changes.
In his objection on behalf of the trust, he said: “While these points may seem like a lot of changes to be made, we that they are all entirely appropriate in the new circumstances of a climate emergency, in which every development must now prioritise walking and cycling over car travel to a much greater degree.
"Moreover, the trust is convinced these changes will actually improve the attractiveness and saleability of the new homes by making the most of the beautiful riverside setting and sustainable connectivity to local shops, leisure and outdoor opportunities."
He also hopes if plans are approved that a portion of the money saved will be put into mitigating the negative impacts described above.
A number of other local residents have also objected to the new plans.
One resident, who lives on the nearby St John's Road said: "Local residents would have objected in droves if this had been the original proposal.
"Yes - reuse the brownfield site but keep the original plans with access to the beautiful countryside."
Don Valley Railway Station also objected, saying the proposed bus route does not link the station well with the rest of Stocksbridge.
To comment on the application, go to https://planningapps.sheffield.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=neighbourComments&keyVal=PL0SSVNY0M900