‘Scandalous’ - reaction to new London-style 'red route' with no stopping rule coming to Sheffield

Work to upgrade walking, cycling and public transport routes is already underway, and as part of the transformation, Sheffield City council are introducing more than a mile of double red lines, spanning from Attercliffe all the way to the Arena.

The Attercliffe project will also feature a 20mph zone, more than a dozen new road crossings and Sheffield’s longest bike lane.

These red lines, which are already a fairly common sight in London, will ban parking, loading and waiting 24-hours a day.

Recent surveys estimate that more than 100 vehicles a day are parking or loading illegally on Attercliffe Road. The scheme will be enforced by cameras with the power to issue penalty charge notices, city council documents show - as they bid to improve safety and bus journey times.

We asked Sheffield Star readers to share their thoughts on the proposed London-style red route - and whether it will have a positive or negative impact on the city.

Ian Taylor expressed frustration. He said: “Great idea that should just about finish off the city centre businesses what clown comes up with these ideas.”

Arshad Mahmood shared a similar view, he added: “Not a very good idea … They are destroying the city of Sheffield with these ideas …. Killing businesses.”

However, Michael Kirwan had a more positive outlook on the scheme. He said: “Excellent idea, however, potholes are stopping vehicles quicker than red lines.”

In London, the standard fine for stopping on a red route is £160, reduced to £80 if paid within 14 days. It’s not yet clear how much the fines will be in Sheffield.

“It’s a cash cow in London & it will be a cash cow in Sheffield,” explained Jason Hull.

While John Platts said: “Anything to to make life more difficult for the motorist. But Hey! That's SCC.”

Ashley Baggaley commented: “Very bad idea.”

“Banning cars will be the last straw for city centre businesses. Public transport is not good enough or reliable enough to tempt customers out of their cars. Retail DOOM,” added Chris Beresford.

Phil Lupton commented “Another death nail in the coffin.”

“Like pedestrianisation it kills the city and its high streets, how can you buy anything if you can’t get it home, bonkers. Hopefully at some point people will wake up and vote for someone who wants business to succeed and bring life back to the city,” said Avsie Paul as he also questioned the impact the plans would have on local businesses.

Mark Hutchinson also voiced his frustration. He said: “Doesn't matter what we say. They will just do it if they are.”

Philip Carr said: “As a motorist I might well go against all my instincts and vote reform if it forces a change to Sheffield councils determined drive against motorists.”

Nasar Raoof simply commented: “Scandalous council.”