A new campaign to tackle drug dealing, dangerous driving and threats of sexual violence has resulted in new barriers blocking a road in Park Hill.
Gangs of up to 30 people have been gathering each night around South Street, prompting a new residents’ campaign group and action from Sheffield City Council.
Now the road has been temporarily closed for up to 18 months in hope to make residents and passersby feel safer.
Sam Gregory, Secretary of the Friends of Skyeline Park group, said that for the last 10 years there has been around 20 to 30 people each night gathering in cars with tinted windows in the area, driving recklessly, and claims that drug dealing has also been observed.
Mr Gregory said: “Most seriously there’s been multiple reports from women who live in Park Hill, that when walking alone through that area at night, they have had threats of sexual violence and harassment from the people gathering in the cars.”
The area is also popular with drug users, with clear evidence of substance use found on the street.
Park Hill is a popular area for people to view the city of Sheffield skyline and the group hopes the road closure will help locals to feel safe and welcomed to come to the area and see the city.
Other the last two decades, extensive efforts have been made to transform the main landmark in the area, Park Hill flats, and Mr Gregory hopes efforts on South Street will add to the regeneration.
Mr Gregory said: “The long-term aim is to transform the area at the top of South Street into a new community green space, like a new little tiny public park.
“We want the people who live in nearby communities and our neighbours to co-design the park with us to give them a space to go and also show the diverse communities that live in the area.”
The group wanted to publicly thank two Sheffield councillors, Laura Moynahan and Elle Dodd and say that they have been really pro-active and have worked tirelessly to make the closure happen.
As part of the closure, the public are welcomed to share their opinions, and a decision for the permanent closure will be made based on their thoughts.