Parking changes in Sheffield suburb to stay despite objections

Sheffield City Council's Transport Planning and Infrastructure Manager Matthew Reynords said the measure was necessary so the public can comply with the 2-metre social distancing rule.

"It is a busy shopping area...in order for us to maintain the 2-metre distance in the shopping parade, you're lucky to get 1.5 metres.

"With the parking area (still in place), it's just not wide enough to socially distance without being run over.

"It is a real safety concern. We always knew about what would happen and always knew there would be a second lockdown. This was almost inevitable," he said.

Last August, Sheffield City Council introduced a temporary change that included closing the parking bays on Fulwood Road, which serve Broomhill's shopping precinct and nearby businesses.

Sections of footpaths on Fulwood Road, Glossop Road and Peel Street have also been widened to help pedestrians maintain social distancing.

But the move earned the ire of the shopkeepers, accusing the council of trying to ram through parking changes which could take away their livelihoods.

This subsequently led to the launch of an online petition, asking for the restrictions to be removed. The petition has so far garnered over 1,200 signatures.

Cllr Bob Johnson agreed and said that the council has continuously addressed the concerns.

"We spoke to the businesses and it is probably fair to say that some businesses affected, some may benefit.

"But we wouldn't do anything without consultation," he said.