Dear Supporters
You may have seen the press reports quoting council leader Cllr Terry Fox
This paints a different picture to the personal update I have received from Martin Phipps Green councillor for Central ward -
‘My understanding is that the petition was really well received and made a real impression on the executive. Douglas (sic Johnson) spoke in support of it, and I believe other exec members also were supportive.
The report that was presented to the meeting that included Pinstone St in was the "City centre strategic vision" - https://democracy.sheffield.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=123&MId=8110&Ver=4
This talked about the joined together nature of all the schemes in improving the centre, adding green spaces, trees, regenerating the area and improving it for walking, cycling and accessibility. This contained the timetables for the work and necessary consultations and passed unamended, including references to importance of Pinstone St.
We hope we are turning a corner on this now and that proposals around an electric FreeBee City centre bus travelling "to" Pinstone St, such as stopping on Barkers Pool, instead of running on Pinstone St and affecting the schemes are being supported now.
I don't think this is completely over, but it looks like it's moving in the right direction.’
That is the email I was sent.
My thoughts at this stage are that we can feel quite powerless as health and social care professionals in negotiations with other governing bodies such as the council however if this petition/open letter has proved anything it is that we can collectively gather round an issue and this can be powerful.
I would like to thank everyone who has signed this petition and particularly those who have commented, these comments went into the report at the council meeting held yesterday and were invaluable.
What next? It’s not over is it? Is it ever??
From this email update my thoughts are I’m glad to work in the NHS! The council is still a mystery to me- how do they get anything done ever?? But- creating this letter has been a learning curve on how to influence decision making that affects us and those we work for- patents not NHS/ social care!
I think it also speaks of the power of a collective voice of professionals and the support from councillors needed for that important voice to be heard.
Let’s see what happens next. In the meantime if you get a chance to speak to your local councillor about active travel- go for it!
It’s a hot topic and you have the power!
Heartfelt thanks again Jo