We call on Sheffield City Council to refuse the current planning application—and any future applications—for a McDonald’s restaurant in the Lowfield area.

As residents, parents, educators, and local business owners, we are deeply concerned about the proposal to build McDonald’s at the junction of London Road and Broadfield Road. We are united in asking the Council to prioritise the health, safety, and wellbeing of our community and, most importantly, our children.

Within just two miles of the proposed site, there are already two existing McDonald’s outlets. The need for a third outlet in such close proximity—particularly near primary schools such as Lowfield and Sharrow—is highly questionable. This development would bring no meaningful benefit to our neighbourhood while posing serious risks to public health and safety.

The proposed site is located in one of the worst areas for air quality in Sheffield. Lowfield Primary School has previously been identified as the most polluted school in the city. Introducing a fast-food restaurant would inevitably increase traffic, congestion, and emissions, directly undermining efforts to improve air quality and protect children from respiratory and other pollution-related health conditions.

Child obesity rates in our area are already alarmingly high, at over 28%. Placing another fast-food outlet within walking distance of schools will only worsen this situation and make it harder for families to encourage healthy eating habits.

While we support local businesses,  economic development must not come at the expense of community wellbeing. London Road already has a very high concentration of restaurants and takeaways-over 30 food outlets-and is recognised as a hotspot for road traffic injuries. Additional traffic generated by another fast-food restaurant would further increase danger for pedestrians, cyclists, residents, and school children. The cumulative impact of pollution, traffic, public health concerns, and road safety risks, makes this proposal unsuitable for our area.

For these reasons, we urge Sheffield City Council to refuse planning permission for this development and to listen to the voices of those who live, work, and raise families in Lowfield.

If you care about the health, safety, and quality of life of our local community—especially our children—please join us in opposing this proposal.

Sign the petition today and help protect Lowfield.