An investment of £100,000 to tackle crime, improve neighbourhoods and support youth services across east Sheffield has been announced by the city council.
The funding and priorities were presented at the East Local Area Committee (LAC) meeting on Wednesday 7 May and means that each ward will be allocated £25,000 to improve their communities and enhance green spaces.
Councillors agreed to push ahead with a series of projects tied to both the East Community Plan for 2024–25 and the Sheffield City Council Plan 2024–2028.
Huda Ahmed, East Local Committee Manager, outlined six main priorities in the council meeting and said: “The priorities are key issues around young people, crime and antisocial behaviour, communities and neighbourhood, housing and wellbeing, the environment, and highways.”
The Sheffield City Council Plan emphasises the importance of building a sustainable and community centric city, with East Sheffield highlighted as a key area for investment due to persistent inequality.
The East LAC covers the wards of Darnall, Manor Castle, Park and Arbourthorne, and Richmond. These areas have experienced high levels of deprivation and social challenges in recent years, particularly a shortage of youth services and safe community spaces.
In addition to these, there is a growing focus on enhancing green spaces in Darnall, Manor Castle, and Arbourthorne. Proposals include cleaner parks, more litter bins, tree planting, and support for community gardening groups to encourage local stewardship of public spaces.
The council believes these initiatives will not only boost the local environment but increase long-term community involvement.
Committee members said the plan was shaped by extensive feedback from residents over the past year. Concerns raised included fly-tipping, drug activity, lack of youth provision, and poor transport connectivity.
Other projects include more community safety patrols, environmental clean-up days, and greater support for voluntary and faith organisations delivering youth and wellbeing programmes.
The committee also aims to work more closely with emergency services and grassroots charities to ensure services are coordinated and effective.
Progress has already been made since last year’s plan, with increased investments in parks, new CCTV installations, and training programs for young people not in education or employment.
Further updates on how the £100,000 will be allocated are expected in the coming months, and local residents are being encouraged to stay engaged and help shape future priorities.
