Active roadworks in Sheffield city centre have triggered frustration among local businesses, with concerns rising over noise disruption and decreased accessibility for motorists.
The ongoing construction remains visible on Pinstone Street and Charles Street, with major works also underway on Attercliffe Road.
This is part of the council’s transport redevelopment plan and the wider Draft Local Plan, with scheduled constructions on brownfield sites in the city centre until 2039.
Starting earlier this year in February, the current works are planned to finish on 1 September.
Sheffield City Council have said major roadworks are underway on Attercliffe Road (A6176) between Staniforth Road and Worksop Road as part of the Connecting Sheffield: City Centre project, which aims to create improved cycling, walking and public transport links.
Some businesses located in the affected areas say the disruption is directly impacting their daily trade.
Businesses near Attercliffe Road are particularly concerned about the temporary lack of parking spaces, with some saying it has discouraged customers and brought financial hardship upon nearby traders.
Maryam Hussain, manager at IQRA Lifestyle Store, said: “Our customers are mostly older adults and busy working parents who have errands here, there and everywhere on a daily basis.
“If you can’t park here, obviously you aren’t going to shop here, who’s got the time?
“We’ve seen a 20 per cent decrease in sales since February,” she added.
Shop workers across the city centre have raised serious concerns over the continuous noise, barriers and reduced footfall affecting independent stores, which have already faced a hike in business rates from April earlier this year.
Despite growing frustration, several business owners have acknowledged the long-term benefits of the development scheme, yet remain disgruntled by the fall in custom.
Lisa Farnell, manager at Sheffield Nails on Pinstone Street, said: “We realise the future collective benefits but presently, barely any of my elderly clients are coming in because it’s just not accessible for them anymore, especially if they are wheelchair users.”
Responding to concerns, Sheffield City Council said the improvements form part of wider investment plans to modernise Sheffield’s transport infrastructure and promote safer and sustainable travel throughout the city centre.
For more information, visit Roadworks in Sheffield | Sheffield City Council