Support the Creation of Toby’s Patch Community Green Space in Burngreave

We ask the Council to work constructively with Innercityhealers CIC to progress its Community Asset Transfer proposal and secure the site’s long-term use for the benefit of Burngreave and the wider Sheffield community.

This green space has been part of my family’s life and the life of our neighbourhood for more than 26 years.

My father lives with schizophrenia, and this was one of the places where he could step outside, find some calm and walk our dog, Toby. That is why we call it “Toby’s Patch.” It taught me that access to nature is not a luxury: for someone experiencing poor mental health, loneliness or isolation, even a small local green space can provide comfort, purpose and connection.

I have lived opposite this land for more than 26 years and watched generations of local families grow up around it. It may appear to be only a small patch of land, but it holds precious memories and the potential to create a healthier future for the whole community.

Burngreave is a strong, diverse and caring area, but it also faces serious health inequalities, social isolation and a shortage of safe, welcoming spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together. Many children have limited opportunities for safe outdoor play, while young people, adults and older residents can experience loneliness, poor mental health and barriers to physical activity.

Our vision is to transform this underused land into a welcoming, community-led green space featuring:

The children’s playground would give local families a safe place to play and spend time together. The outdoor calisthenics area would provide free and accessible exercise opportunities, particularly for young people and residents who cannot afford gym memberships. The nature hub would create a base for environmental education, community activities and wellbeing support, while the sensory garden would offer a calm and restorative space for people experiencing anxiety, poor mental health, disabilities or sensory needs.

Innercityhealers CIC wants to develop Toby’s Patch alongside local residents, ensuring that it reflects their ideas, cultures and needs. The site’s existing trees, greenery and natural character would be protected and enhanced.

This is not about one person or one organisation. It is about giving local people a genuine stake in their neighbourhood and creating a place where children can play, young people can exercise, families can connect and people struggling with their wellbeing can find peace in nature.

Once community green space is lost, it is extremely difficult to replace. By protecting this land and supporting Toby’s Patch, Sheffield City Council can help create a lasting community asset, improve health and show residents that their neighbourhood and their future matters.

Please sign and help us turn a small patch of land into a place of hope, health, belonging and opportunity for Burngreave and the wider Sheffield community.