Restrictions lifted on blue badge parking in parts of York City Centre
Campaigners have argued for years for the policy to be changed
After years of campaigning people with disabilities will finally be able to access parts of York City Centre today.
The Council is lifting the ban on blue badge parking.
Restrictions were brought in back in 2021 to protect against vehicle based terror attacks.
But the new Labour Council pledged to change the policy when it was elected in May.
The restored access arrangements mean Blue Badge holders will be able to drive into the city centre at any time. They will need to present a valid Blue Badge to barrier staff at the sliding bollards on Goodramgate, and have their clock card with them to display alongside their Blue Badge. They can then drive along Goodramgate, and out via the bollards at Colliergate. They can also drive both ways along Church Street and turn around at the junction with Silver Street, just beyond St Sampson’s Centre.
Once installation and connection of the hostile vehicle bollards is complete, which is expected by Easter 2024, access for Blue Badge holders will also be available via staffed, sliding bollards at Blake Street, through St Helen’s Square and out through CCTV-controlled sliding bollards at Lendal.
"York is a City that is welcoming and vibrant"
Cllr Peter Kilbane, Executive Member for Transport and Economy at City of York Council, said: “I want to apologise to Blue Badge holders for the decision to close the city centre and the harmful impact this had had on you.
“By not only reversing the ban as promised, but by listening to and learning from all those affected, we can and will do better to improve access now and in the future.
“York is a city that is welcoming and vibrant, where it is right that everyone can enjoy all the city has to offer. Shaping the city centre so that it is accessible will help ensure the city is, and remains, welcoming for everyone."