Parking scheme gathering speed
LONG-RUNNING proposals to introduce permit parking in Hillsborough are expected to move a significant step closer next week – but streets around the football stadium are being excluded.
Councillors are being recommended to give the go-ahead for restrictions near Hillsborough Corner after a consultation programme indicated support from residents and businesses.
However, without corresponding backing from people on the doorstep of the Wednesday stadium, no further action is being taken at this stage.
Hillsborough is being lined up as the next district for a permit parking scheme now that changes have been made in Broomhall, Broomhill, Sharrow Vale, Crookesmoor and Highfield.
The restrictions comprise a mixture of permit holder only parking, limited free parking, pay and display at 20p per hour and shared parking bays.
They are designed to strike a balance between tackling long-stay commuter parking, providing a turnover of spaces so drivers can nip in and out of local shops and allowing residents to secure parking spots near their homes.
But inevitably the schemes generate controversy, with some traders complaining that parking can become more difficult for customers and businesses objecting to the 30 annual permit fee for a first car and 60 for a second, and householders paying 10 and 20, respectively.
Concerns in Hillsborough resulted in an extensive scheme being modified to concentrate on two areas.
Plans for roads around Hillsborough Corner are moving to the next stage after 66% of respondents indicated full or partial support. Council officers are now working up details with a view to having a scheme fully operational by the end of next year, subject to further consultation.
However, as a result of the latest public reaction, it is intended to exclude May Road, Holme Road, parts of Hammerton Road and parts of Clarence Road.
Proposed restrictions for the streets near the football stadium were due to come into operation four hours before and two hours after matches, creating parking bays mainly for residents and short-term shoppers.
But almost 60% of residents and businesses were opposed (only residents of Fielding Road and Winster Road expressed more than 50% support), so the plans are not being taken any further.
Councillors will be advised by their officers to back the overall strategy next Thursday, paving the way for a Traffic Regulation Order covering Hillsborough Corner.
Coun Ian Auckland, cabinet member for business, transport and skills, said: "A permit parking scheme around Hillsborough Corner is something that we've been working with residents and business on for some time.
"As we move into this next stage of consultation it is really important that people have their say and tell us exactly how they want the scheme to work. The Traffic Regulation Order sets out what restrictions are on what street, waiting times, types of bays and so on so I'd urge people to get involved and give us their feedback.
"We already work closely with the Police and Sheffield Wednesday on match days to manage traffic and parking around the football ground. We will continue this work to try and minimise disruption to residents."
Got a view? Leave your comment below.
BUY ONLINE: The Sheffield Telegraph and Property Guide are now out every Thursday. To sign up on line click here.
MORE:
Local News
Local Sport
Arts Guide
Community News
Listings Guide
Restaurant Guide
Letters
Email to a friend
Print this page- Katie shines as burns unit opens
- New TV prison drama does time in Sheffield
- MATCH REPORT: Sheffield Wednesday 0 Blackpool 3
- Snow Patrol chats to The Star ahead of their Sheffield gig tonight- LISTEN TO AUDIO INTERVIEW
- SNOW LATEST: Airport reopens as South Yorkshire returns to normal - but wrap up Monday
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Sheffield
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light sleet
Temperature: 1 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Light sleet showers
Temperature: -1 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South east
