‘Avoid at all costs’ - Sheffield residents give verdict on whats its like to drive around city centre
Sheffield residents share their views on what its like to drive around the city centre
The centre of Sheffield, like many parts of the city, has undergone huge transformation over the years.
And the changes show no signs of stopping.
A new bus gate will be introduced on Furnival Gate near the top of Matilda Way, while an existing bus gate, on the opposite side of Furnival Gate, at the bottom of Pinstone Street will be brought back into operation.
Both bus gates are due to become operational on September 19, which typically coincides with large numbers of university students commuting to the city for the first time as they move in for freshers week.
The changes have been implemented in an effort to make bus journeys quicker, more reliable and easier for people in the centre of Sheffield, according to the council.
It comes amid a push to improve public transport from the new Prime Minister, with a £2 bus fare cap coming in January next year - along with a series of policies aimed at making buses more affordable for youngsters during the school holidays.
However, the new bus gates have not gone down well with everyone, with some road users questioning the impact that it’ll have on their ability to get around the city by car.
Glynis Foster said: “They’re great if you want to stop people using the city centre.”
Paul White also expressed concerns about how it will impact local businesses. He said: “Bad thing is that it's killing the trade and shops in the city centre.”
Dominic Courtney added: “Why would anybody want to drive into the city centre, just use the park and ride.”
Sue Crowther said: “It's getting harder! They are making places much more congested by introducing unnecessary bus gates.”
The lack of parking spaces and the number of fines being handed out is a problem across the city, with businesses on Ecclesall Road expressing concerns about the lack of parking and the rate of fines.
With all that in mind, we also asked our readers to share their thoughts on the driving situation in general Sheffield and particularly the city centre.
Peter Ayres said: “I would never attempt to drive into the city centre.”
Josie Blagden referred to the situation as simply as a nightmare due to difficulties parking.
Daniel McKeen said: “I avoid it at all costs. Instead I go to Meadowhall. There’s no bus gate, little diversions and there is free parking.”
Shaun Moulds was less critical, he commented: “It's absolutely fine. I really don't get what people struggle with. If you don't know where you're going, put it into Google and follow the satnav. Easy.”
Martin Rapier shared a similar view. He said: “It is fine as long as you know where you are going. To be honest, I usually walk, cycle or get the bus, but I do drive in once a week.”
Lisa Chappell said: “I don’t drive into the city centre and choose to use the tram instead.”
“Roadworks mean I don't go that much ... they seem to take forever,” added Cheryl Jackson.
Diane Furness also avoids driving in the city centre. She commented:” I don’t know, as it is a minefield of bus lanes, one way streets, parking tickets and greenways.”
George Clarke adds that even as a former driving instructor, he chooses to avoid the city centre.
He explained: ”I am a retired driving instructor, I used to take pupils through town for traffic experience. Now I don't take my car into town for fear of where I can and can't go with the risk of a fine.
Stuart Will said: “I avoid it like the plague.”
Scott Ward said: “I don't go to the city centre anymore. I go to other places that are accessible instead. “