Details on how a trial of new traffic restrictions could be affected by major roadworks in York set to take place next year have been revealed.
A trial ban on private traffic driving from Rougier Street to Micklegate via George Hudson Street would be lifted during £1.9 million works on Lendal Bridge, a City of York Council official said.
Tom Horner, the council’s travel behaviour lead, said the planned pause recognised the impact the closure of the bridge would have on traffic in the area.
It comes after officials said the 18-month trial of the Rougier Route would start in January, subject to it being approved by the council’s executive on Tuesday, July 7.
The £2.35 million scheme would see only buses, emergency services vehicles and cyclists allowed travel from Rougier Street to Micklegate via George Hudson Street.
Private traffic would be diverted along a new one-way loop from Rougier Street to Micklegate via Tanner Row and Toft Green.
A bus lane would run southbound along George Hudson Street with a ‘bus gate’ in place from the road’s junction with Micklegate to the latter’s junction with Skeldergate and North Street.
Hackney carriage taxis and Blue Badge holders would be exempt from the restrictions and measures would be in place to allow Bishophill residents to drive to and from their homes.
But the proposed start time for the trial would mean it would clash with the planned closure of Lendal Bridge to traffic.
Repairs worth £1.9 million are set to address significant corrosion and deterioration on the 19th Century bridge, protect its long-term load capacity and eliminate the need for frequent emergency works.
Extra non-essential works worth £1.3 million included repainting the bridge’s decorative features are also planned.
Works were set to take place in April but they are now set to happen next year following delays due to ongoing works outside York Station.
Lendal Bridge works are set to see it close to vehicle traffic but pedestrians will still be able to cross and officials are working on a solution for cyclists.
Council head of policy and travel behaviour Mr Horner said officials were currently planning to pause the Rougier Route trial and then do the works on Lendal Bridge.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) the council could pause the scheme for other reasons if necessary, for instance if Skeldergate Bridge was affected by flooding.
Separately, Mr Horner said the council would work with the hospitality industry to ensure tourists and visitors to York are aware of the trial.
Council Labour transport spokesperson Cllr Kate Ravilious said a £150,000 registration system planned to facilitate Blue Badge holders’ and others access could be used for other schemes like School Streets.
People with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who use taxis will also be encouraged to apply for a Blue Badge and register their regular private hire operator.
