New Underground Storage Tank -Carver Fields

Yorkshire Water is beginning its largest-ever environmental investment programme, with £8.3bn being spent across the region over the next five years. Around £1.5bn of this will fund new surface water sewers, underground storage tanks, nature‑based solutions and sustainable drainage systems to help reduce storm overflow discharges and improve the health of local rivers and coastal waters.

As part of this programme, work will soon begin on a new 2,500m³ underground storage tank beneath Carver Fields, off Hagg Lane. This tank will hold excess wastewater during heavy rainfall, reducing the need for discharges into local watercourses and helping to prevent sewer flooding.

Carver Fields was chosen after extensive investigations, based on existing underground assets, local geology and the amount of land required, while aiming to minimise disruption to the community.
The working area is shown in red on this Yorkshire Water’s site map.

Normal working hours will be 7am–7pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional later work where residents will be notified in advance. No access to homes is required; residents are reminded to check identification before letting anyone in.

Yorkshire Water’s partners, Ward & Burke, plan to start construction in July 2026, with the project expected to take around 18 months. 

Before construction begins, additional surveys are needed on Hagg Lane. To carry these out safely, there will be a temporary road closure on Monday 8 June and Tuesday 9 June, between 7pm and midnight.

Update on Carver Fields

Yorkshire Water have confirmed they will proceed with installing a large underground water‑storage tank on part of Carver Fields, using statutory powers under the Utilities Act. The project is expected to take approximately 18 months and will require access for the delivery of equipment, excavation and soil removal. Construction, installation and the subsequent reinstatement of the land. Some disruption and periods of restricted access should be anticipated throughout the duration of the work. Enquiries should go through Yorkshire Water’s customer line on 0344 848 1099, quoting YW.205212. Residents are encouraged to keep a record of any communication and let the Methodist Church in Sheffield know Tel: 0114 272 6561 / 0114 299 7130 http://www.sheffieldcircuit.org.uk  so they can maintain a coordinated overview of the community concerns.

Despite the constraints, activity on the site can now move ahead. We are pleased to confirm a new partnership with Food Works, who will begin using the top paddock for growing and community activity. Their approach focuses on affordable, nature‑friendly food, environmental improvement, and hands‑on involvement for residents, schools, and local groups. Access to the site will remain open and encouraged.

The partnership will develop in phases: 

  • Phase 1: Building relationships and engagement, starting with an open picnic in May to meet the team and shape ideas together. 
  • Phase 2: Early visible activity, including initial growing beds and small seasonal projects. 
  • Phase 3: Longer‑term development of the site, planned alongside the Yorkshire Water works, leading to a sustainable model of growing and community use.

Carver Fields still holds significant potential. The Food Works partnership provides a positive starting point, bringing immediate activity and a clear direction. Over time, this can grow into wider community events, volunteering, and improvements to access, paths, fencing, and tree care. 

Our aim is to ensure Carver Fields remains an active, safe, welcoming space shaped by the needs and ideas of local people. Further updates will follow as work progresses.

In response to growing church members and community interest in enhancing the local environment, the Crosspool Forum has been successful in securing Sheffield City Council LAC funding to help improve Calver Fields.

With this support we are looking to install two new picnic tables around the edge of the field, creating a welcoming spot for residents to meet, relax, and enjoy the space. The bench tables will sit on a recycled plastic Anchor sleeper‑style base.

This grant helps continue protecting the natural character of Calver Fields while making it an even better place for Church members and the community.

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.