The end of York’s Christmas Market would be a loss felt by businesses across the city, its organiser’s boss has warned as access issues have cast doubts over its future.
Make It York’s managing director Sarah Loftus said the market played a vital role in supporting local artisans and traders, many of whom rely on it to promote their work.
She added the valuable economic boost the market provides to the local hospitality sector, shops, attractions and accommodation providers would be lost if the event is axed after this year.
The managing director’s comments come after senior councillors said restrictions during the event which will bar Blue Badge holders from driving into the city centre raised questions about its future.
An Anti-Terror Traffic Regulation Order (ATTRO) requested by North Yorkshire Police will be in place during the market from Thursday, 13 November to Saturday, 21 December.
It bars all vehicles, except those belonging to the emergency services, from city centre streets subject to existing hostile vehicle measures from 10am to 7pm.
Following approval of the restrictions, head of Make It York Ms Loftus said the event was cherished and played an essential role in showcasing local businesses.
She added the growth in the market’s popularity meant crowd management and accessibility were more important than ever and they were working to try and make it inclusive for all.
The managing director said: “While we understand that changes have been made to manage access to the city centre during the Christmas Market, the decision is one that ensures the best possible experience for everyone’s safety, including those of Blue Badge holders.
“The Christmas Market plays a vital role in supporting our local artisans and traders, it is a celebration of what makes York so special, contributing to the local economy.
“Without the Christmas Market, the city would lose this valuable economic boost.
“We couldn’t be prouder of the continued success and strong community support surrounding the Christmas Market, despite the challenging economic climate felt by many businesses.”
‘Not good enough’
City of York Council officials are currently working with the force to find ways to lessen the impact on those affected, which also includes the authority’s waste disposal teams and delivery drivers.
North Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Tim Forber has said the restrictions are needed to deter vehicle attacks which have targeted Christmas markets and other large gatherings elsewhere.
But disabled people have said the order will restrict their ability to visit York city centre to access services and shop and socialise during the festive period.
The council’s Labour Leader Cllr Claire Douglas said the council effectively had no choice but to approve the police’s request but the restrictions meant its future was now in question.
Deputy leader Cllr Pete Kilbane said the authority could not justify putting on an event that locks a proportion of the city’s population out.
Cllr Douglas told the council’s executive meeting on Tuesday the success of the Christmas Market had increasingly made it difficult for all those involved to manage.
The council leader said: “Of course the market is a huge economic benefit to the city, York’s a fantastic place to be at Christmas.
“But it’s not good enough that part of our city centre can’t be enjoyed by some and that they can’t access the basic level of services they rely on or socialise.”
Cllr Kilbane said the exclusion of disabled people raised serious human rights issues.
The deputy leader said: “If we can’t find a way of allowing all residents and visitors to come and enjoy the Christmas Market then its future is in doubt.”
