Flats set to be built near busy hospital

At a meeting of the authority’s west and north planning committee this afternoon, members have been advised to approve the application for a site on the junction of Barnsley Road and Idsworth Road in Firth Park.

Nine single-storey garages in two blocks are currently on the site, which are mostly vacant and in a “state of disrepair.”

If the plans are approved, as recommended by city planners, the garages will be demolished and replaced with three two-bedroomed flats on the first floor, two one-bedroomed flats on the ground floor and three garages.

A central entrance with a lobby, off Idsworth Road, will provide access to the development.

In the report set to go before today’s meeting, city planners say that the applicant has already “taken on board” advice from Sheffield Council’s planning department, and the plans have been “submitted accordingly.”

However, two separate petitions have been sent to the authority opposing the plans, bearing a total of 46 signatures. A further six letters of objection have also been submitted, including one from councillor Gill Furniss.

Coun Furniss said: “During the day it is almost impossible to park anywhere near our properties.

“Northern General staff choose to park their vehicles on our road every day, often for a full eight-hour shift.

“I totally object to the provision of more housing, as it will make a bad situation even worse.

“Idsworth Road is a very busy junction at Barnsley Road and these flats would be a safety hazard.”

However, city planners say the application should be approved, on the condition that the developer pays £3,486 to pay for more recreational space in the area.

Today’s meeting begins at 2pm at Sheffield Town Hall.