Following our article ‘Woods Campaigner Tired of Being Ignored’ in the August 2004 issue, about Peter Mappin’s struggles with the Council over the state of Little Roe Woods, the Council have finally cleared the dumped material and erected a barrier to keep fly-tippers out.
Peter Mappin told us he was pleased the Council had finally taken notice of his concerns was happy with the results. Nick Sellwood, Woodlands Manager sent us the following response.
"Little Roe Woods is managed by the Trees and Woodlands Team, part of the Council’s Parks Woodlands and Countryside Service. Prior to 2000, none of the main entrances were secure and there was frequent dumping of cars and fly-tipping. In 2000 all the access points were secured with gates and pedestrian squeezes. We have worked with local people and schools to raise awareness of the site, promote its positive use and discourage antisocial behaviour.
"A large amount of fly-tipping has been removed over the last few years and we endeavour to remove material as soon as possible. During 2004 six instructions were issued to Street Force, and our cleansing team to remove dumped material. All the material shown in the article has been removed.
"However a track alongside Little Roe Wood has continued to be used for dumping. It belongs to Sheffield Homes, adjoins land held by Social Services and acts as an access for Sheaf Training. We have been working in partnership with these bodies and the Firshill TARA to resolve the issue since early Spring.