Cab drivers and trade representatives in Sheffield have raised urgent concerns about the scale of road closures and maintenance work across the city, saying heavy congestion is preventing some passengers — including those attending hospital appointments — from reaching their destinations on time.
Where the delays are being felt
Drivers singled out several busy routes where works are contributing to long tailbacks, including Tenter Street, Furnival Road, Clarkehouse Road and Granville Road. Private hire operator Manzal Ali told InfoRadar that it is not uncommon for vehicles to be caught in gridlock for around 20 to 30 minutes, a delay he said can be critical for vulnerable passengers needing prompt care.
“We take people to and from hospitals and the traffic is making people’s lives harder… Especially during rush hour with diversions, we’re not always able to get them there.”
Hafeas Rehman, chairman of the Sheffield Taxi Trade Association, echoed the message and called for improved advance notice and clearer communication about the reasons for and duration of works. He criticised an evening weekend driving ban on Carver Street, saying that a lack of signage there created safety risks, and warned that poor road repairs were forcing drivers to pay out for vehicle maintenance.
“We recognise it’s necessary to do the work, but it’s difficult during peak hours… They should inform the public why, have better communication and not just rely on websites to do so, because taxi drivers face the brunt of it.”
Calls for practical changes
Drivers put forward a number of practical suggestions to reduce disruption and keep essential journeys moving:
- Provide clear, advance information on the duration of works and planned diversions.
- Consider extended or 24/7 working where safe and feasible to shorten project timescales.
- Ensure adequate signage, especially where temporary bans or diversions operate at night and weekends.
- Improve surfacing quality to avoid premature potholes and vehicle damage.
Council response
Sheffield Council said the current disruption is linked to essential infrastructure upgrades intended to prepare transport, water and electricity networks for a growing population. Officials framed the works as long‑term investment to make systems fit for future demand.
| Issue | Example roads / concern |
|---|---|
| Congestion during peak times | Tenter Street, Furnival Road, Clarkehouse Road |
| Signage and safety at night | Carver Street driving ban raised as concern |
| Road surface quality | Potholes causing vehicle damage |
Drivers and trade representatives emphasised that while they accept the need for renewal works, better coordination and communication are required to prevent the most vulnerable residents being adversely affected by delays. For patients with fixed hospital appointments and for those reliant on taxis for medical travel, even short hold‑ups can have significant consequences.
I will continue to pursue detailed timings from the council and seek clarity from contractors over working hours and signage plans so that residents and drivers can plan journeys with less uncertainty.
