Front Page

Council seeks proposals to transform ‘ski village’ site

Sheffield City Council has confirmed it is seeking a developer to transform the derelict site at Parkwood Springs into a “nationally-significant attraction”. The artificial ski slope was closed after a fire in 2012 and the facilities destroyed by a plague of arson attacks. The council now owns the former ski village site land and is set to test the market by asking investors and developers to bring forward ideas for the wider area as an urban country park or activity centre. An initial study suggests the site is a “viable business opportunity” that can contribute to Sheffield’s reputation as The Outdoor City. Sheffield Live! reporter Simon Thake spoke to Neil Schofield,  chair of Friends of Parkwood Springs.

 

Sheffield student wins top chef award

A Sheffield College student, Louise Downs, 19, has won the prestigious David Lyell Scholarship award as top young pastry chef 2016. The award, from the Master Chefs of Great Britain, is open to all chefs under age 21 whether working in the catering business or at college. Sheffield Live! reporter spoke to Louise Downs and to Sheffield College lecturer, Len Udwin.

Niche nightclub to re-open in new year

The launch date is set and Sheffield’s famed Niche Nightclub will reopen its doors at a new location on 28 January 2017 after a ten year absence. Tickets for the first night sold out in less than five minutes and there are changes not only to the location but also to the music and age restrictions. Sheffield Live! gained exclusive access to the new site to see the work in progress. Sham Powell reports for Sheffield Live!

Police launch new campaign on drink driving

South Yorkshire Police are urging drivers to avoid driving during the festive period while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The campaign to discourage people from irresponsible drinking emphasises safety and alcohol awareness with the aim to reduce drink driving, alcohol related violent crime, vulnerability, domestic violence and underage drinking. Additional measures include drink drive enforcement, test purchasing, the roll out of fixed penalty notices, working with licensed premises and increased patrols to deter people from drink driving. Bailor Jalloh reports for Sheffield Live!

Sheffield tree campaigners protest outside Town Hall

Two hundred people gathered outside Sheffield Town Hall to protest against the Council’s tree felling programme before a Council debate on the issue. Members of Sheffield Tree Action Group and Save Our Roadside Trees addressed protesters ahead of the full council meeting which debated a Green Party tabled motion of ‘no confidence’. Sheffield Live! reporter Sham Powell spoke with former Green Party leader Natalie Bennett.

 

Street pastors help keep city revellers charged

The Sheffield street pastors, who volunteer every Friday and Saturday night, now carry mobile phone charging devices to help people keep in touch and get to their destinations safely. Sheffield City Council bought the battery-powered devices from funding won for its award winning Best Bar None scheme to promote a vibrant and safe city centre nightlife. Sheffield Live! reporter Shamaan Freeman-Powell spoke to Tricia Watts, street pastor co-ordinator.

Green Party tables ‘no confidence’ motion in Council leadership

Sheffield Green Party councillors have reacted to the felling in Sharrow of another popular tree by tabling a motion of ‘no confidence’ in the Sheffield Council leadership. It comes after the Council’s contractor, Amey, cut down the only street tree on Ventnor Place, despite objections from residents who live there. Cllr Rob Murphy said: “This is yet another example of how the council leadership has lost control of the situation. It clearly shows we’re right to put our motion of no confidence to the Council meeting on Wednesday”. The Council are already under pressure to discuss claims of mistreatment of tree protestors last week on Rustlings Road however they declined to make a statement to Sheffield Live! on the latest incident. Sheffield Live! reporter Shamaan Freeman-Powell spoke to Alison Teal, Green Party councillor for Nether Edge and Sharrow.

Voluntary Action Sheffield celebrate 90 years of volunteering

As part of their 90th anniversary celebrations, Voluntary Action Sheffield organised their first ‘Make a Difference Awards’ to recognise Sheffield’s voluntary sector. The event celebrated the quality and diversity of the local voluntary sector and volunteering. Sheffield Live! reporter Simon Thake spoke to Paul Harvey, Volunteer Centre Manager for Voluntary Action Sheffield.