It has taken six years, but residents of Leeman Road in York can celebrate a significant breakthrough in the row over their future access rights.
Ever since the National Railway Museum revealed its transformation plans, including a new Central Hall being built across Leeman Road, there have been concerns over how local people would get to and from the city centre.
Residents were infuriated by the museum’s ‘walkway agreement’, drawn up without their input or consent, which would only allow them to walk through the enlarged museum during its opening hours, which are currently 10am to 5pm.
They wanted 24/7 access. And while that hasn’t been achieved, the NRM has now agreed to extend access hours for residents.
The new agreement – which works in addition to the walkway agreement – will allow pedestrians to use the official route through Central Hall from 7.30am to 10am, and 5pm to 7pm, unless the museum has an event.
Holgate ward councillors have long been campaigning against the original access restrictions. They welcomed the added hours.
Holgate ward councillor Kallum Taylor said: “Given what we’ve been through with these plans over the last six years, and how previous administrations led by other parties turned their back on residents at vital points, this can only be welcome news.
“While there are still issues, this is an extra four and a half hours of access every day not previously available, so I am very grateful to Cllr Douglas and our Labour council for making it a priority to get a better deal for Leeman Road residents.
“I sincerely hope it represents a turning point in the NRM’s relationship with the community around it and, more broadly, how the Council views its role in advocating for communities at the heart of big changes involving partners.”
City of York Council’s leader and deputy leader have held several meetings with the National Railway Museum since last May to find a solution that works for both the local community and the NRM.
The new agreement is for the first three years after Central Hall opens, after which it will be reviewed.
Council leader Claire Douglas said: “This is good news for Leeman Road area residents and I want to thank everyone who has helped make this happen.
“I am grateful to the National Railway Museum for working with us to find an improved solution that ensures that people can pass through Central Hall for longer than previously agreed, and particularly during early morning and evening commuting hours.”
Director of the National Railway Museum Judith McNicol is soon to leave that post to take up her new role as managing director of the British Museum.
She said: “I’m really pleased we have reached an agreement with the Council and people of York to allow a greater level of access through Central Hall.
“As one of the last things I’ve achieved before I step down as Director of the National Railway Museum, I hope this leaves behind a positive message for our local visitors in particular, and helps them to enjoy their day and the museum.”