Sheffield MP reaffirms support for tram expansion after meeting residents
“I know that the number one priority for local residents is improving connectivity”
An MP has reaffirmed her support for an expansimn of Sheffield’s tram network as she laid out her priorities for improving the lives of residents in one of the city’s communities after a recent public consultation.
In July, Penistone and Stocksbridge MP Marie Tidball hosted a ‘Pride in Oughtibridge’ meeting to connect with residents and discuss the main issues blighting the community.
Now, she has released a list of the major concerns she is hoping to address, with transport highlighted as a key issue.
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“I know that the number one priority for local residents is improving connectivity,” the Labour MP said.
“Unreliable buses and awkward timetabling are cutting residents off from work, leisure, education, and public services.
“I want to see an integrated transport system across Stocksbridge and the Upper Don, including an extended tram-train to Sheffield via Stocksbridge, Deepcar, Oughtibridge and Wharncliffe Side; reinstating the SL1, an improved 57a, and a Hopper bus to Grenoside.”
Tram routes to Stocksbridge have been long-discussed, with Ms Tidball even raising the matter at PMQs on March 25, asking for the Government’s support to “get spades in the ground for a tram-train extension to Stocksbridge as soon as possible.”
Then-Prime Minister Keir Starmer said at the time that he was “working closely with South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority on better transport links” and providing £1.4 billion in funding for the region.
South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard - whose office runs Supertram - has also suggested it as a potential destination for future expansions, alongside routes to Chesterfield, but timetables for when this may occur are still unknown.
In her meeting, Ms Tidball said that residents also raised concerns about flood defences - which she said she would write to the Environment Agency about - and the lack of an NHS dental practice in the area.
“Finally, residents said that there is a lack of activities for young people locally,” she added.
“This is contributing to feelings of loneliness and overuse of social media.
“A new youth club in Oughtibridge, potentially linked to the school, would provide a community space for Oughtibridge’s young people to meet one other.”