Why Fir Vale?
Having the opportunity to attend local area meetings and talking to my fellow residents in Fir Vale, it is evident we have a community that is feeling more and more mystified and betrayed by the authorities and local councillors.
The Fir Vale masterplan was met with some very discontented and some very optimistic residents who saw this as a ray of hope. The plan included replacing the existing run-down retail units with a new local shopping centre, car parking and dedicated service roads; replacing 140 houses and 114 flats with 155 new family homes, apartments and dedicated elderly peoples accommodation; creating a “community hub” of buildings and spaces for multi-cultural uses, instead we have what can only be described as Sheffield’s largest dumping ground. Why Fir Vale?
We then have the severe parking predicament around the Northern General Hospital. Years have passed and thousands have been spent on consultations with residents, of whom the majority believe the only solution is to have the hospital build additional car parks. The problem remains and the council still feels the best solution is to cash in on the residents misery by making them pay for permits to park outside their own homes. Why Fir Vale?
We also have problems with anti-social behaviour and the section 30 order, put in place as a result of large groups congregating, public areas are being used as WCs, litter and domestic appliances being dumped, prostitution, overcrowding in privately rented homes, the constant threat of gang fights and not to mention poor street lighting, potholes and street signage. The problems seem to be getting worse and again the residents constantly question Why Fir Vale?
The residents in Fir vale are feeling let down, angry, worn out, mistreated and sick of these false promises made by the ineffectual local councillors to resolve the many issues that we face on a daily basis. Many feel abandoned, isolated and insecure, but we are all asking the same question, Why Fir Vale?
Ahmir Hussain – Local Resident