Report sets out plan to tackle congestion in Malton and Norton

The feasibility study has been produced by North Yorkshire County Council, Ryedale District Council, Network Rail, Northern and TransPennine Express following plans to increase the number of rail services at Malton station.

Its aims to reduce congestion in Malton and Norton, particularly around the level crossing and Malton Air Quality Management Area, encourage more use of non-motorised transport and provide adequate parking close to the railway station. Norton Town Council has been consulted on a new report.

Cllr Ray King, mayor of Norton, said: “With all services being located on the Malton side of the level crossing, Norton requires continued and unfettered access over the crossing by all means of transport, as well as by foot.

“Pedestrian crossing points at the junction with Welham Road, County Bridge and Norton Road need to be considered as a matter of urgency. This area is very dangerous for pedestrians.”

Cllr Di Keal said one of the possibilities was making Norton Road one-way to help improve congestion.

“Weight restriction on the level crossing needs to be implemented as soon as possible, with the business exceptions kept to a very tight limit,” she said.

Councillors also said a dedicated station parking was required on both sides of the railway, although there are access issues mainly on the Norton side.

Cllr David Lloyd-Williams said: “A barrier crossing over the railway to access the station could be one solution.”

The council felt that a park and ride facility was not warranted at this time, but did have concerns if charges were to be considered for St Nicholas Street car park, as it is located in residential area that is lacking in any off street parking, and serves a vital purpose within its locality.

Cllr Lloyd-Williams said: “It is vital that both Norton and Malton Town Council are fully involved in the process of the feasibility study as the councils are sounding boards for local people.”