Decision details

Purpose of Report: To respond to the 19 July 2018 Full Council motion requesting the Executive bring forward options for the closure of Micklegate Bar to outbound motorised vehicles at the earliest possible opportunity.

The Executive Member will be asked to review options for traffic restrictions in the Micklegate Bar area, including closing the Bar in the outbound direction and approve the introduction of an experimental Traffic Regulation Order to trial any changes.

Resolved:  That the Executive Member agreed:

(i)      that an experimental Traffic Regulation order (TRO) be introduced for a maximum of 18 months and that if variations during the experimental period are required, the Assistant Director for Transport, Highways and Environment be given delegated authority to approve changes.

Reason: to determine the benefits of restricting motor vehicles in Micklegate, allowing the local community the opportunity to experience the changes before making representations and to enable any rapid variations to, including abandoning, the experiment.

(ii)      that Option 3 be approved as the initial starting point of the experimental TRO. The involves introducing a plug No entry except for pedal cycles restriction at Micklegate Bar only. This would permit access to Mickelgate from the George Hudson Street junction which would address concerns about access raised by some residents and businesses during the closure for the works.

Reason: this option will have the least impact on the local community, is the least costly to implement and will have virtually no adverse impact on the historic street scene.

(iii)     That the consultation letter drop area be extended to the area shown on the plan in Annex A of the report and temporary signs be put in place to advise drivers of the web address for information.

Reason: to encourage greater public participation in the consultation process for the experiment.