Both main political groups at the Town Hall are pressing East Midlands Trains, which runs the station, to think again.

They are concerned that the barriers, designed to prevent fare-dodging, will also prevent the station footbridge being used as a convenient through route by pedestrians.

Liberal Democrats and Labour have submitted motions to be debated at the full council on Wednesday, both pointing out that millions of pounds of public money have been spent on the station and its square.

The footbridge is used by Supertram passengers walking between the tram stop at the back of the station and the city centre, it is argued. It is also used by residents of Norfolk Park and Park Hill.

Labour leader Jan Wilson said East Midlands Trains had attended several community meetings but did not appear willing to discuss any option for revenue protection other than installing the gates.

Liberal Democrat council leader Paul Scriven said: "Although we support the principle of checking tickets, we are totally opposed to gating at the station.

"We feel that restricting access to the footbridge can only have a negative effect on the people of Sheffield. The footbridge provides pedestrians with a safe, well lit, secure route between the city centre and the Park Hill and Norfolk Park areas of the city. Residents would have to take a lengthy detour. Surely there must be another solution?"

Coun Scriven urged people to make their views known to the rail company, either by emailing getintouch@eastmidlands trains.co.uk or by using a feedback form via the home page of the council's website.



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