Category: environment

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Friends of Lydgate Green

The maintenance of public gardens, such as the flower beds at Lydgate Green on Lydgate Lane, is often the result of the tireless efforts of community volunteers and local gardening enthusiasts. These individuals dedicate their time and skills to ensure that these green spaces remain vibrant and welcoming for all to enjoy. Their work not only involves the physical labour of planting and upkeep but also the knowledge of horticulture to select suitable plants and maintain them throughout the seasons. The result of their commitment is a testament to the power of community spirit and the shared value placed on natural beauty and communal well-being.

While their contributions may sometimes go unnoticed, the lush flower beds and manicured lawn edges stand as a silent tribute to their passion for gardening and their love for the community. It’s a wonderful opportunity for community members to connect with nature and each other, enhancing the local environment while forming lasting bonds. For inquiries or to lend a hand, the group can be reached at crosspoolforum@gmail.com

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Broomhill Community Library

Starting this Friday 6th September, Broomhill Community Library, Taptonville Road
Heritage on your doorstep! Lots of events to choose from around heritage, gardening, and the environment with several authors talking about local history and well-being as well as heritage activities for kids.

Exploring local heritage can be a fascinating journey into the past, offering a unique glimpse into the history and culture that shaped our community.
Events like those at Broomhill Community Library provide an excellent opportunity for individuals and families to engage with their local history through a variety of activities. From talks by authors who delve into the nuances of local history and its impact on well-being, to hands-on heritage activities designed for children, these events serve as a bridge connecting the past to the present. Gardening and environmental workshops also highlight the importance of preserving and understanding our natural surroundings, emphasizing the role of community in maintaining our shared legacy.

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Retrospective Application Update

Manchester Road/Stephen Hill Road
Manchester Road

In response to the Crosspool community’s concerns regarding the costly modifications to a property on Manchester Road, the Crosspool Forum contacted local Councillor Ruth Milsom. The aim was to seek clarity from the Planning Officer overseeing the retrospective application.
The Planning Officer has provided this update on the situation, detailing the current status of the application and the next steps in the process.

“SCC’s position remains that anything less than the reinstatement of the original bay windows at no. 496 will be unacceptable. We appreciate the critical contribution that bay windows make to the uniform character of that stretch of Manchester Road, and therefore the significant visual harm that has resulted from the non-approved works at no. 496.

“The applicant has been made aware that the current situation is not acceptable, and we are in contact to work out how the situation might progress. The applicant has taken the Extension of Time to allow additional time for them to assess what path they should take. If they do choose to stick with a scheme that does not meet our requirements, it is likely that permission will be refused with enforcement action to follow. They could then appeal this refusal, though, which would further delay reaching a satisfactory conclusion. Nonetheless, it should be within our powers to hold them to what they said they would do originally in 23/00299/FUL, and restore the appearance of the area.”

About the most recent matter of the contractor continuing with exterior rendering work even while there is an outstanding retrospective planning application, the officer’s comment was that Planning Enforcement has discretion over what to take issue with and when. They can issue a ‘Stop’ notice if ongoing work is causing ‘egregious harm’ to the amenity of the area, but it is unlikely that such a response would be proportionate to the rendering work. If planning permission is refused as we expect, it is just more finished work for the developer to undo.

This proactive approach by the Crosspool Forum exemplifies the importance of community engagement in local planning matters.

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Rivelin Valley Conservation Group 2024

The Rivelin Valley Conservation Group (RVCG) is known for its dedication to preserving the natural beauty and heritage of the Rivelin Valley.
In 2024, they have a diverse array of events scheduled that promise to engage the community and further conservation efforts. These events often include talks by wildlife enthusiasts and experts, task days for hands-on involvement, and open meetings to discuss ongoing and future projects.
While specific details of the events are not available, the RVCG has a history of organizing activities that are both educational and enjoyable, contributing significantly to the local community and environment. It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to connect with nature and participate in the valley’s preservation.
For more details, please refer to the RVCG website or email: rivelin.valley@gmail.com

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BROOMHILL COMMUNITY LIBRARY

Walking Friends
Meet new people each month through walking and having a cuppa together afterwards.

WALK 1- LODGE MOOR
TARA HQ, 53 Westminster Crescent
Monday 22nd April 10.30am monthly
short walk on flat paths

WALK 2- BROOMHILL
Broomhill Community Library
Thursdays monthly coming soon
medium-Length walk with a bit of incline

WALK 3 – CROSSPOOL
Corner of Den Bank Drive with Hagg Lane
Wednesday 24th April 10.00am monthly
Longer walk with uneven paths and inclines.
To book, please contact:
wellbeing@broomhill-library.org.uk or phone 0114 2734276

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The Future of Carver Fields

This Wednesday 10th April at 7pm, Stephen Hill Methodist Church is hosting a sit-down meeting to talk about the people who use Carver Fields, and care about it now, and in the future.

The Sheffield Methodist Circuit needs to be able to answer some questions about Carver Fields, what it does and what it can do for the future.

They want to be able to have an honest and open conversation about the future of the site within the realms of Methodism, what it needs to be able to do and what it will cost to do it- both in time, financially and in resources. All who use the site, live next to it, walk on it, chat on it, or play games on it, are welcome to attend the meeting and express their views.

The meeting will conclude with hopefully a feeling of what the future could be, who will be involved in it and how it may be able to generate some income to support the site.
This will then be written up as a proposal for the Sheffield Methodist Circuit leadership team.

Engaging the community in an open dialogue about the future of this local site is a commendable approach. It ensures that the site evolves in a way that is inclusive and reflective of the community’s needs and values. Discussing the practical aspects such as time, financial investment and resource allocation is crucial to planning successful. Encouraging users to share their views can lead to a well-rounded vision for its future, and could help foster a sense of ownership and community spirit.

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The Future of Carver Fields

On Wednesday 10th April at 7pm, Stephen Hill Methodist Church is hosting a sit-down meeting to talk about the people who use Carver Fields, and care about it now, and in the future.

The Sheffield Methodist Circuit needs to be able to answer some questions about Carver Fields, what it does and what it can do for the future.

They want to be able to have an honest and open conversation about the future of the site within the realms of Methodism, what it needs to be able to do and what it will cost to do it- both in time, financially and in resources. All who use the site, live next to it, walk on it, chat on it, or play games on it, are welcome to attend the meeting and express their views.

The meeting will conclude with hopefully a feeling of what the future could be, who will be involved in it and how it may be able to generate some income to support the site.
This will then be written up as a proposal for the Sheffield Methodist Circuit leadership team.

Engaging the community in an open dialogue about the future of this local site is a commendable approach. It ensures that the site evolves in a way that is inclusive and reflective of the community’s needs and values. Discussing the practical aspects such as time, financial investment and resource allocation is crucial to planning successful. Encouraging users to share their views can lead to a well-rounded vision for its future, and could help foster a sense of ownership and community spirit.

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Developer seeks planning permission after the fact

The planning application with reference 24/00772/FUL appears to be a response to concerns raised by neighbours regarding the unauthorised replacement of traditional bay windows with the installation of flat windows and French doors to a property on Manchester Road in Crosspool. This application was officially received and validated on the 12th of March, 2024. Those interested or affected by this application can submit their comments to the local planning authority for consideration

Altering windows and doors can significantly change the appearance and character of a property and in many cases, the insertion of new windows and doors, that are of a similar appearance to those used in the original construction of the house, generally don’t require planning permission. However, if the changes are made without the necessary permissions, the local planning authority may take legally binding enforcement action for the reversal of the changes. 

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Fly-Tipping Fines Increased

In light of the recent statutory changes implemented by the government, councils now possess the authority to impose increased fines. This development reflects a significant shift in regulatory powers, enabling local councils to more effectively enforce rules and regulations. The enhanced fining capability is anticipated to act as a deterrent against infringements and support the maintenance of community standards.

To effectively combat the widespread problems of fly-tipping and litter, local authorities are now contemplating the introduction of steeper fines. These initiatives are designed to dissuade individuals from unlawfully disposing of waste, thereby ensuring public spaces remain clean and safe for everyone.

In response to the grievances expressed by residents, weary of the constant fly-tipping and litter in their neighbourhoods, councillors at a recent Sheffield City Council budget meeting put forward a proposal to impose harsher penalties for such environmental offences. This included the introduction of new fines and increased enforcement action across the city. The proposal was accepted by a majority of councillors.

The new fines for fly tipping will rise to £1000 (up £600) and the penalty for littering is doubled to £160 (up £80). These new fines are expected to raise an additional £100k per year which will be channelled into enforcement services.

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Crosspool Christmas Tree Recycling

If you are a Crosspool resident and looking for a way to dispose of your real Christmas tree after the festive season, why not join the Crosspool Forum in their eco-friendly initiative? They are offering a shredding service for a small donation, which will help you recycle your tree and reduce waste.

Drag your tree down to the front of Direct Travel’s premises on Sunday 7th January 2023, between 10am and 11.30am, where Andrew Clayton, a local tree specialist, will be ready to recycle it for you. The shredded material will be used for mulching and composting purposes.

The Crosspool Forum is grateful to Direct Travel for their generous support and cooperation in this project. They hope to see many Crosspool residents participate and contribute to the community’s environmental aims.