Sheffield's 'Summer in The Outdoor City' reflects 'growing confidence' in easing of lockdown

Council chiefs have drawn up a large-scale programme of events from June to October to boost tourism and support businesses following the pandemic.

The council says it wants to animate the city centre with events and live music, bringing in footfall and bridging the gap between day and evening trade.

Big names such as the Children's Hospital, Sheffield Theatres and the University of Sheffield are on board and events are also planned for district centres, including Walkley, Hillsborough and Firth Park.

An ‘Alfresco Avenue’ could be piloted on Division Street where parts of the road are closed to create a semi-permanent zone for outdoor markets.

A 'Covent Garden of Sheffield' is planned for Tudor Square while Orchard Square has craft markets, art events and food stalls.

And the Leadmill is looking to create three acoustic music trails taking in Devonshire Street, West Street, Millenium Galleries, Castlegate, Kelham Island, Abbeydale Road, Sharrowvale and Ecclesall Road.

In a report, Michael Crofts, executive director of Place at the council, says: "There is growing confidence that with the successful roll-out of the vaccination programme and the reductions in case rates, both nationally and in Sheffield, that the economy can now begin to safely reopen.

"Following the easing of the national lockdown restrictions as part of the roadmap, it is important that the city takes steps to support local businesses that have been hit hard by the pandemic.

"Nevertheless, the threat posed by Covid-19 has not disappeared, particularly with the emergence of new variants, which means that it is important that both individuals and businesses continue to act carefully and to take measures to protect themselves and others and to reduce the risk of transmission.

"The measures have been developed following advice with Public Health colleagues and ensure an appropriate balance between reopening the economy and doing this safely in a way that minimises the risk to people’s health."

The council's Executive, formerly known as the Cabinet, will discuss the plans at a meeting next week.