Wincobank Development Plans Face Renewed Opposition Over Historical Site Concerns

Advocates are once again urging developers to halt construction proposals for a plot of land in Wincobank, asserting its profound historical importance. Local residents reported that site preparation, including the removal of trees and shrubs, occurred on the land earlier in the current month, even though no official development plans had received approval. For over two decades, The Friends of Wincobank Hill organization has actively campaigned to safeguard this parcel of land, situated off Sandstone Drive, which they contend is located above a Roman dyke. Investates Developers, identified as the landowner, was contacted by the BBC for a statement. This particular plot of land is situated to the northeast of the semi-detached residences on Sandstone Road. Investates Developers had previously submitted planning requests to construct residential properties on this location, with the earliest application recorded in 1991. Subsequent applications were lodged in 1995, 2003, 2012, and 2018; however, every one of these proposals was turned down by Sheffield City Council’s planning committee. A 2018 report indicated that the council’s rejection of the proposal was based on concerns that “the proposed development may result in damage to a significant prehistoric archaeological site”. The developer lodged an appeal against this ruling, but a government planning inspector subsequently upheld the original decision. Inspector Colin Ball, in his determination regarding the appeal, stated that the Roman Ridge “may be one of the most significant examples of ancient linear land division in Britain”. Danny Allsebrook, who chairs Friends of Wincobank Hill, commented: “This is a nationally significant site as well as an archaeological treasure.” He added: “The area is steeped in history and natural history with woods and trees.” Allsebrook concluded: “It cannot be built on.” Madelaine Tanner, a resident of Sandstone Road, has resided adjacent to the site for over three decades. Despite the absence of any indication that the developer had filed a new planning application, she expressed that she was “bracing herself”. She recounted: “I couldn’t believe it when I saw the diggers.” Penny Rae, a former participant in the Friends group, has managed several campaigns related to the site. She remarked: “It’s like the Battle of the Roman Ridge.” Rae continued: “Every few years this comes up. Now we need to win the war.” The recent activities on the site have also caught the notice of Sheffield Forgemasters, the long-standing cast and steel manufacturer, which possesses the reservoir and portions of the land bordering the disputed plot. Gary Nutter, the chief executive, stated: “We are aware of surface ground clearance around our Wincobank reservoir, which has encroached on Sheffield Forgemasters’ land and have contacted the responsible parties to express our disappointment.” The owners of the land have not provided a response to inquiries for comment. Sheffield City Council similarly chose not to comment.