Traffic restrictions to be placed on historic road in city centre
AN EXPERIMENT aimed at restricting traffic on one of York’s main historic roads has been announced.
York Council is introducing new temporary traffic limitations in Micklegate – the traditional Royal processional route into the centre – from Monday, December 10, to prevent vehicles travelling outbound from the city and reduce the impact of traffic on the historic bar walls.
Following a debate by councillors, an experimental Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is to be introduced for a maximum of 18 months, during which time the changes could become permanent. During this period, there will be an outbound road closure only, but cycle access will be available in both directions.
This means the road will be open to inbound traffic through Micklegate Bar from Blossom Street, Nunnery Lane and Queen Street. The TRO will help determine the benefits of restricting vehicles in Micklegate and will allow the community and businesses the opportunity to experience the changes before making representations.
Signs will be installed at Micklegate Bar, with temporary information placed on all approaches.
Coun Peter Dew, the executive member for transport and planning at York Council, said: “The aim of the experiment is to improve the environment in Micklegate by removing a proportion of the through traffic whilst maintaining access for those who need it. We hope this will help traders and businesses to take advantage of the reduced traffic in the area and will encourage even more pedestrians to shop down Micklegate too.”
A Labour member for Micklegate ward, Coun Jonny Crawshaw, said: “Micklegate Bar is a jewel in York’s heritage crown so it’s great to know that this important scheduled monument will be protected from any future damage by motor vehicles.”
There was a full road closure in place last year on Micklegate Bar as part of a £1.5m restoration scheme to preserve and protect York’s medieval city walls.