SHEFFIELD BOTANICAL GARDENS - University of Sheffield

B2.1.2. GOOD AND SAFE ACCESS
B2.1.2.1. ROAD SAFETY
The Botanical Gardens are located between two busy roads, Clarkehouse Road and
Ecclesall Road. On the North side of the Gardens Clarkehouse Road is crossed by a
new puffin crossing close to the Main Entrance.
A traffic island and zebra crossing is located at the Brocco Bank Entrance enables
pedestrians to across the road in safety.
Ecclesall Road is crossed by one pedestrian crossing adjacent to the Thompson
Road Entrance.
B2.1.2.2. VEHICLES
Only authorised vehicles may enter the Gardens, e.g. horticultural machinery and
service vehicles restricted to 5mph with their hazard light on. For safety reasons the
Botanical Road junction to Brocco Bank was blocked to traffic by a paved pedestrian
area. An exception is made from users of the classroom who are allowed to park
vehicles on the drive way inside the Thompson Road Entrance during the period the
classroom has been hired to them and disabled drivers.
Event vehicles are also permitted providing the above restrictions are followed and
during times of heavy vehicle use (pre / post events) the Gardens are closed to the
public for their safety. During big events SCC health and safety officers monitor
vehicle use and the only vehicles permitted to be used around the Gardens is
horticultural machinery.
B2.1.2.3. LITTER / DAMAGE
A dedicated team of staff and active friends group enable us to keep control of litter.
The public are encouraged to use the bins provided. The bins are emptied every day
or as necessary. We have adopted a zero tolerance for graffiti. The Gardens staff
have a graffiti removal kit and any thing they can not remove is reported to the
building section immediately. Any damage within the Gardens is reported and made
safe by the staff or reported to the building section.
B2.1.2.4. MAINTENANCE
The Botanical Gardens are maintained to a high standard, although due to the recent
restoration much of the planting is immature and generally not overgrown. We
ensure the paths are clear of debris, the lawns mown and beds kept weed free.
Continuous improvements are in place to raise the horticultural standards as the
Botanical Gardens mature.
B2.1.2.5. HANDRAILS
Where possible next to steps, handrails have been installed or are planned to be to
assist Garden visitors. Inside the Main Entrance we are consulting with English
Heritage regarding the possibility of installing a handrail to the steps within the
restrictions of the Gardens’ Grade II Listing.
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