Sheffield people have their say over retail quarter plans

Residents have raised concerns about a lack of parking and traffic control in Sheffield Retail Quarter plans.
Phase One of the Sheffield Retail QuarterPhase One of the Sheffield Retail Quarter
Phase One of the Sheffield Retail Quarter

The public were offered a chance to have their say yesterday at a consultation discussing plans for phase one of the forthcoming development.

Charter Square roundabout will be swept away in phase one to make way for a pedestrian zone.

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One member of the public who attended the drop-in session at The Art House in the city centre yesterday said: “I’m less than impressed. It will have a negative effect on mobility with roads being removed.”

He added that the lack of parking is also a concern.

But the man’s wife disagreed with him and said: “I think it’ll be a lovely building.”

She said the council must want to keep traffic out of the city centre.

The team behind the retail quarter were quick to reassure members of the public. A poster, used as part of the consultation, said: “Due to the highly sustainable city centre location, the excellent public transport links and nearby public parking facilities, there is a reduced need for extensive on-site parking.”

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However, Barry Dobson, aged 59, who is retired, said: “Our road system is a mess. We need more public transport. I’m not sure the council understands how it will get traffic in and out of the retail quarter.”

Mr Dobson added that as a cyclist, Sheffield is an awful place to travel around.

“I don’t know anyone who hasn’t fallen off on tram tracks,” he said.

He added: “I hope the council use this retail development as a way to improve it for cyclists.”

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Not all feedback was negative, with one local businesswoman embracing the new build as a way to bring more trade to her business.

The planned outer designs for the buildings were also a hit with visitors.

Mr Dobson said: “I kind of like how they’re using the Peak District as influence for their urban model.”

The session marked the start of consultations for phase one of the huge city centre development.

Plans include retail, restaurant and office space.

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Most notably it will be home to the new HSBC offices. Mr Dobson said: “I think it is a great thing that HSBC is staying in the city centre.”

To have your say, email [email protected] or visit Sheffield Retail Quarter