In the final days of its local election campaign, Labour is placing student life at the centre of its pitch – highlighting housing standards, safer streets, and a more accessible night-time economy.
Several Sheffield Labour councillors are facing growing pressure from Reform UK challengers in this year’s local elections, with previously safe seats becoming more competitive.
Crookes and Crosspool Cllr Minesh Parekh explained how his own experience as a previous student in Sheffield continues to shape priority of his policies.
“We know there’s still a lot of change to be made. We want to build on the success we’ve already had,” he said.
Housing is a constant concern for students living in areas like Crookes, where large numbers rent privately.
Government data shows that 46% of private renters report problems with damp, mould or condensation, compared to 22% of homeowners.
Across England, around 2 million people live in homes with significant damp or mould, with clear links to respiratory illness.
Cllr Parekh described his struggles: “One of the worst experiences I had was living in Crookes where my kitchen ceiling fell in… after chasing our landlord for six months it was ultimately a threat of withholding rent that made any change.”
He added that such experiences are common and pledged stronger council support: “I want you to be aware that the council is here for you.
“I don’t think poor quality housing is acceptable in this day and age.”
Another local Labour approach revolves around reshaping Crookes’ high street, a hub of student life.
Investment through community funding has already seen £90,000 spent on improvements such as refurbishing shopfronts, benches and planters on the high-street.
Cllr Parekh said these improvements aim to “bolster the neighbourhood” and make it “a more pleasant place to be,” alongside measures like 20mph speed limits designed to encourage footfall and safer streets.
Night transport has emerged as a key issue for students.
Cllr Parekh argued Sheffield must move away from taxi reliance: “We shouldn’t be dependent on a taxi being the only option after 8 o’clock.
“It limits the night-time economy.”
Labour has signalled ambitions to expand late-night travel options, aiming to create a city that “doesn’t feel like it shuts off at 11 o’clock.”