Bus and bike lane plans for major Sheffield route set to move forwards after cash agreed to pay for changes

Plans which Sheffield Council claims will improve the bus services on one of the city’s main routes into the city centre are set to move ahead, after cash was agreed for the project.

The money to pay for the A61 Chesterfield Road corridor project’s second phase has been approved.

The scheme forms part of the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) programme, which is investing in transport infrastructure across South Yorkshire. Officials believe it will make getting around easier, support economic activity and help tackle climate change.

The A61 Chesterfield Road corridor has been identified as a key route within the programme, with the project designed to provide faster, more reliable public transport while making it easier and safer for people on foot, on bikes or in wheelchairs

The money announced today will support the development of the scheme's second phase, which focuses on larger-scale engineering improvements and detailed design work. A first phase, centred on bus stop improvements, had already been approved.

The council says the scheme will make public transport quicker and more reliable, as well as creating separate cycle lanes and pavements, away from the road. Some opponents have raised concerns of long traffic jams of cars giving out greenhouse gases.

Coun Alexi Dimond, chairman of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: "The A61 Chesterfield Road is one of the city's most important transport corridors, connecting communities with jobs, education and services. This additional funding is an important step in developing plans that will improve public transport, make journeys more reliable and create a safer environment for everyone using the route.

"By investing in better transport infrastructure, greener public spaces and more sustainable travel options, we're helping to build a city that is easier to move around, supports local businesses and contributes to our wider environmental ambitions. These improvements will benefit residents now and help meet the needs of Sheffield's growing communities in the future."

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However, hundreds have signed a petition against plans for longer operating times for the bus lanes on the A61.

In total, 539 people have signed a petition calling for the times not to be changed.

One person who signed the petition warned on the petition website: “I take the children to and from school and this road is a nightmare.

“The bus lane is always empty and cars are backed up for miles, this bus lane is SO SO polluting to the environment and our local area, thousands of cars a day just sit in a huge queue because they can't use the bus lane. I would request they reduce bus lane hours even more or remove altogether.”

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