Temporary cycle lane at University of Sheffield to become permanent
An experimental traffic order was introduced on Northumberland Road between Marlborough Road and Whitham Road, Broomhill, in April 2025.
Last updated 24th Aug 2026
A temporary one-way system and cycle lane will become permanent outside the University of Sheffield.
An experimental traffic order was introduced on Northumberland Road between Marlborough Road and Whitham Road, Broomhill, in April 2025.
A spokesperson for Sheffield City Council said: “The purpose of the traffic order is to trial a revised traffic arrangement incorporating improved infrastructure for cyclists, one-way operation for motor vehicles including segregated cycle lanes, pedestrian safety improvements, and the removal of on-street parking.”
Christopher Thomas, a student at the University of Sheffield often cycles in for teaching at The Wave, the building beside the junction.
He said: “I think Sheffield struggles a lot with having cycling infrastructure that’s actually planned for cyclists and not just added on after the thought. It’s definitely good to see a dedicated and segregated bike lane in the city.
“It’s also nice that it’s being integrated as part of the student community. It’s right outside the gym and it’s quite a busy street where a lot of taxis drive at night so it’s good to have some added protection there for potentially vulnerable road users.”
The scheme is intended to create a safer environment for cyclists and the many pedestrians that cross the road to access the University campus and city centre.
A council document said the cycle lane will reallocate highway space towards active travel, and the one way system is a measure aimed at lowering vehicle speeds and creating a more accessible street.
It continued: “The temporary measures have created an environment where cyclists can feel comfortable to use the route and pedestrians can also feel comfortable crossing the road.”
The scheme generated 107 objections, mostly related to perceived traffic displacement onto surrounding streets and the removal of on-street parking.
The council document said: “While some increase in traffic has been observed on surrounding streets, these changes are from a low baseline and remain relatively low.”
It said the effects do not indicate severe congestion or unacceptable impacts on highway safety.
Council officers will now be working with the University of Sheffield’s consultant design engineers to produce a permanent scheme.