Sludge-ridden roads on the school run have been described as a ‘nightmare jungle gym’ by frustrated parents and residents who have hit back at the council for not sorting it out.
Trees on Psalter Lane, Endcliffe, are protected by the council – however the sodden debris has blocked up footpaths – making it hard to travel.
The tree waste has also affected commuters, with some residents having to pre-clean their cars with wipes and sponges, due to the rot.
Phil Hodgson, 56 and resident on Psalter Lane, said: “It’s getting ridiculous. Imagine having to wake up every morning to not only track your way through the muck but to clean your car too.”
“I think any parent can understand the rush to get your kids to school. Imagine trying to do that with this added nuisance.”
Mr Hodgson moved to Psalter Lane from Chesterfield just under a year ago with his wife and two children. His two children still attend their school at Chesterfield.
Mr Hodgson added: “It’s a literal nightmare. My kids are suffering just as much as I am. The inside of my car is ruined with my kids turning up to school in dirty trousers and shoes.”
The father believes that the pavement is unfit to use – that on several occasions, his children have had to walk on the road to get to their car.
Pavements covered by sludge.
Mr Hodgson concluded: “Getting to my car is like traversing a jungle gym – though it’s neither fun for me or my kids.”
“Who knew that trying to get your kids to your car in the morning would be dangerous. I didn’t sign up for this.”
More photography of the muck appearing on Psalter Lane.
Charlotte Hargreaves, another resident on Psalter Lane, has found the council’s lack of support frustrating.
Charlotte Hargreaves said: “This really shouldn’t be an issue. I don’t mind the trees being there at all but the council is just not helping us out.”
“I just don’t feel supported here. I feel that any jobs to maintain the pavements and roads are just lacking effort.”
The Council have said that they undertake a regular cleaning programme during this period to help keep roads and footpaths, across Sheffield, clear.
A Council Spokesperson has said: “People should report any issues on the highway to Streets Ahead online.”
A schedule for the leaf clearing programme can be found online at www.sheffield.gov.uk/home/report.