A new initiative has been introduced to encourage Christmas Market visitors to travel on two wheels.
Voluntary group York Cycle Campaign have set up a safe cycle parking facility, based on the grounds of York Minster Refectory.
The trial project aims to make it easier for cyclists to park during a time where Parliament Street is too busy to push a bike through.
It will also give cyclists peace of mind that their bikes will be secure during their visit.
The chair of the campaign, Robyn Jankel, believes that whilst the York Christmas Markets are a fun and popular event, they do present challenges for the city.
She said: “Not least is the extra car traffic, so we’d like to do our bit to make the best alternatives more viable.
“You can bypass the traffic by bike in no time, but because of the huge crowds, gaining access to city centre cycle parking during the peak times of the market can be a bit tricky and there are the usual security worries.
“So, with the generous support of the Minster Refectory, our volunteers are going to staff a covered parking facility to make things easier, at least for a few days. Think of it as a cycle cloakroom.”
The project will be run on a temporary trial basis, to demonstrate the need for what the campaign hopes will result in a permanent staffed and secure facility in the city centre.
Similar cycle parking schemes are now appearing in more cities throughout the country.
“We’re really hoping that our efforts will be genuinely helpful, whilst pointing the way forward to what’s needed in the city in the future.” Robyn added.
The facility will run on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th December from 4pm – 7pm, as well as Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December from 10 am – 5pm.
Spaces will be on a first come first serve basis, with users invited to make a Christmas donation to charity.