A bold new vision has been put forward for one of York’s busiest junctions.
It would see a major change in the layout of the Bootham-Gillygate junction, as well as Exhibition Square.
The proposals have been put forward by York Civic Trust after it worked with residents, councillors, businesses and others on improving the area.
The trust’s favoured choice would achieve “the greatest improvement in the public realm and with the least disruption of traffic”.
This would involve Exhibition Square being expanded. The fountain would go and the statue of William Etty moved to protect it from traffic pollution.
The square could then be used as a performance space, host pop-up markets and exhibitions.
Under these plans
- the approach to the Gillygate junction would be restricted to buses, taxis and emergency vehicles
- traffic down Gillygate would be limited
- pavements would be widened
- and a through cycle route from High Petergate created.
City of York Council has plans to remodel the junction on a much more modest scale, while updating faulty traffic signals.
Destination space

The idea of expanding Exhibition Square is to create a ‘destination space’, says the York Civic Trust.
“We believe that the benefits arising from these changes would make the junction a safer, healthier place to live, work and visit.
“The effect would be to make the public realm around the junction an attractive and desirable place to be, a destination rather than a place to move through as fast as possible, as it currently is, to a safer, quieter, friendlier space.
“The widening of paving on Gillygate and the city-end of Bootham would make for a more pleasant experience in shopping here, just as restrictions on traffic using Micklegate have brought similar benefits on that street.”

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CEO of the trust Andrew Morrison said: “The junction is currently an unattractive and chaotic public realm space.
“We feel currently there are major issues for all forms of users and transport methods, and it could be enjoyed by residents and visitors in a much better way.”
Guildhall ward councillor Janet Looker (Labour) said: “As a local councillor I know and appreciate the many frustrations, and risks, so many of us deal with on a regular basis when trying to cross this junction – pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicles often struggle to manoeuvre safely across.
“I therefore welcome the work that has been led by the Civic Trust to come up with some new ideas. This has involved a lot of work by volunteers and extensive consultations with residents and traders in Gillygate.”
Another ward councillor, Denise Craghill (Green) said: . These proposals give an inspiring view of what could be possible to improve this junction and the surrounding area for all users whilst also improving air quality and the setting of the historic Bootham Bar.
“I hope that these proposals can form a key part of taking forward the new Local Transport Plan.”
The Civic Trust has published its key findings on its website and is asking for further comments and feedback