City of York Council is urgently looking at making changes to rows of bollards in a busy shopping area.
At an executive meeting on 15 June, a furious resident spoke to councillors about the bollards in Front Street in Acomb, York.
Zeina Chapman, who is part of the What a Load of Bollards Campaign Group, told councillors she wants the obstacles ripped out, preferring benches, tables and planters to take up the leftover space.
“I want to know why money that was allocated to much-needed regeneration was used by the council for an unnecessary highway scheme creating a spiritless strip…that could have otherwise been a hub for a thriving community,” she said.
Ms Chapman added: “We could not find one person that supports this abomination.”
She also said that businesses were reporting “much lower footfall,” adding: “People simply don’t want to come to Acomb anymore.”
Council leader Cllr Claire Douglas said: “Thank you for your comments, and your questions as well.
“And I’d like to reassure you that as a matter of urgency, we are looking into the Acomb Front Street situation and hope to be able to make changes in conjunction with the community over the coming months.”
Some are happy
However, speaking to people in Front Street painted a very different picture.
Giuseppe Rago, 54, working at Town Coffee House, said footfall hasn’t altered since the installation of the bollards.
“I actually think footfall is better at the moment, but that could be because it’s summer,” Mr Rago said.
“I don’t think these things have made a difference, absolutely not.
“I know a lot of people complain because of the aesthetic but it doesn’t affect me.”
John Armstrong, 72, a resident, said: “I agree with them.
“Anyone could drive off the road onto the path and kill someone.
“I think they should be by bus stops too.”
Cath Speed, 64, added: “I’ve got no issue at all with them.
“It’s health and safety, isn’t it?”
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