York rat-run to be closed in two weeks’ time
Work will begin next month to end a York rat-run.
The scheme will make part of Navigation Road one-way, ending its role as a shortcut between the inner ring road and Walmgate.
The trial will include the following changes:
- creating a south-bound section of one-way road between Rosemary Place and Rowntree Wharf to stop through-traffic. The section will run between two segregated cycle lanes in both directions
- improved safety and visibility for pedestrians and cyclists at either end of Hungate Bridge and around Rowntree Wharf car park
- Improved connections for the city’s north-south cycle route.
The one-way scheme will mean traffic leaving the city centre must exit via Walmgate Bar rather than through the residential area – a diversion of 60 metres, according to City of York Council.
It was first proposed in December.
Construction of the scheme will commence Monday 4 October and is planned to be completed in five days. Hours of working will be 8am-4pm Monday to Friday.
During the construction, there will be no access to the section of road between Rosemary Place and Rowntree Wharf. Diversions and road closure will be signposted with access for residents and pedestrians maintained where possible.
Feedback welcome
Once completed, the low traffic neighbourhood trial period will last for a minimum of six months, and can continue as an experiment for up to 18 months.
An evaluation of the scheme will then be brought to the executive member for transport Andy D’Agorne for consideration to make the scheme permanent.
Cllr D’Agorne said: “Road safety is paramount if we want to encourage more residents and commuters to get around York sustainably.
“We have heard the concerns of road users and residents in the Navigation Road area and this low traffic neighbourhood scheme will help address and alleviate some of the issues raised through the consultation process earlier this year.
“I am pleased to see the benefits this scheme will bring to safety for pedestrians and cyclist travelling to and through the area including increased visibility at junctions, segregated lanes in both directions and the benefit of reduced through-traffic on the road. I look forward to hearing residents’ feedback throughout the trial.”