Private vehicles have been banned from a bridge in York during the day in a bid to ease congestion and speed up public transport movements.

The Lendal Bridge – which is a major route into the city centre – began a six month trial last week to restrict cars, lorries and motorbikes from using it all day. Only buses, taxis, bicycles and pedestrians are able to cross between 10.30am and 5pm.

The trial is dividing public and political opinion on whether the scheme is a good idea.

Simon Williams of the Federation of Small Businesses said: “I cannot understand the logic behind it. All they have done is stop traffic from one area and moved it to another. It will be very difficult when the schools go back and it will probably cause gridlock.”

York Council believes that by banning cars, lorries and motorbikes – which make up 80% of traffic during the day – walkers, cyclists and buses should find this route easier to navigate.

Councilor Dave Merrett said: “Closure of the bridge to certain traffic represents the next phase of improving the pedestrian environment and boost York’s world class status. It will also help to reduce day time congestion in the area and will be an important first step towards improving public transport reliability through the city centre.”

(Photo: Gordon Hatton)

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