As small business owners in Neepsend, Sheffield, my sister and I are facing a pressing issue - the implementation of excessive double yellow lines. Our salon, along with many local businesses including barbers, cafes, restaurants, bars and shops, rely on the accessibility and convenience of urban life to thrive. However, these recently implemented parking restrictions are threatening our livelihoods.

Without available parking, our clients find it extremely challenging to visit us, especially when their appointments are short. The absence of sizeable nearby parking facilities has compounded the issue. The few available spots at the local bed shop are often occupied, drastically reducing parking opportunities for our customers. We understand that the pay and display system has to come into force to prevent city centre workers parking in kelham for free (we agree as this is why the parking was already difficult) but this will cause massive problems for small businesses such as ours for clients parking.  It would be better to replace a lot of the double yellow lines with short term pay & display e.g. max stay 4 hours. We feel it isn’t necessary to impose such drastic measures without considering small businesses in the area especially when the majority of this area are independent businesses.

Neepsend has experienced a surge in popularity recently. We need to support and sustain this progress, not hinder it. A study found that accessibility can impact up to 30% of the customer's choice of shopping location (source: Journal of Transport Geography). With people travelling from all over Sheffield to visit the vibrant businesses here, the lack of convenient parking will inevitably deter potential customers threatening the vibrancy and economic health of our community.

We urge the local government to reconsider these restrictions, remove any unnecessary double yellow lines, and to focus on forward-thinking solutions that consider the needs of small businesses and their customers. It is not just about our salon - it is about keeping Neepsend/ Kelham Island, Sheffield buzzing, for its businesses and its people.

Please sign this petition and help us make a change. Let us keep the wheels of Kelham Island/ Neepsend's economy running.