Transport boss reveals extent of accidents on tram tracks in Sheffield

For the 12 months ending July 2020 there 18 collisions recorded on the tram tracks – a dozen were slight and six were serious.

Three of the collisions involved injury to a cyclist – one who was seriously injured and two who were slightly injured.

The accidents were revealed after Coun Angela Argenzio asked what Sheffield Council was doing to help cyclists navigate the tram tracks.

Coun Bob Johnson, Cabinet member for transport and highways, said temporary signs had been erected at places where cyclists had fallen off at tram tracks to warn them of the risks and to advise them to cross the tracks at 90 degree angle.

He added: “A short animation film was created showing cyclists how to cross tram tracks safely and a short film was made promoting the Portobello cycle route compared to the West Street route, both were distributed through social media.

“Currently, an interactive cycle map is being developed to support cyclists in choosing cross city routes that avoid the tram tracks. It is intended to develop this further next year to create a mobile phone app.”

Coun Johnson said he was looking to open a Bike Hub in the city centre, which could also be used by residents living in flats.

“With this in place, we will be able to give residents, workers and visitors a safe place to store their bike and give them much needed peace of mind.

“I recognise that there are many flats across the city and I am talking to officers as to how this can be provided.

“There is always a funding gap with many of these, and as demonstrated with recent planning applications, where this is required as part of new developments, we will seek to ensure this type of facility is provided from the outset.”

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