City could limit access for vehicles amid threat of terror

ANTI-TERROR MEASURES could be stepped up in York as stricter controls are considered around key tourist sites.

A protective barrier was set up outside the Minster in November, with armed police seen for the first time at York Racecourse in September.

Now, on the advice of police, authorities are being asked to consider halting all vehicles from accessing areas of “significant footfall” around the city centre and these two sites.

“Terror attacks in the UK, while very rare, understandably create great concern,” said Coun Ian Gillies, executive member for transport and planning. “With our partners, and most especially the police, we want to deter any would-be attackers and reassure the public that we are alert to the risks and are working to help protect them. Our priority is the safety and security of all those attending or involved in events in York, and residents and visitors are encouraged to continue with plans to attend or take part as normal.”

The national terrorist threat level remains at ‘severe’, meaning an attack is highly likely. In light of this, North Yorkshire Police has advice the council to further limit vehicle access.

The council’s executive is to consider a raft of proposals at its executive meeting next Thursday. The authority has been asked to commission a review to identify key sites and access including at the Minster and the Racecourse, although only on race days at the latter site.

It is also to be asked to delegate decision-making powers around a one-year trial in order to speed up the process and ensure measures are in place ahead of the first race of the season at the Racecourse in May.

Superintendent Lindsey Robson of North Yorkshire Police’s York and Selby Command said: “The threat level for the whole of the UK from international terrorism remains at ‘severe’, meaning an attack is highly likely. Therefore, like all forces, we continue to take appropriate steps to protect our communities.

“The safety of those who live, work and visit York is our main priority and our security measures and activities are constantly reviewed to reflect where the threats exist.”