Traffic action plan for Pickering revealed (From Gazette & Herald)

Traffic action plan for Pickering revealed

11:38am Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News

AN ACTION plan to improve traffic conditions in Pickering’s busy Market Place has been revealed to the town council.

Richard Marr, area manager for the county council’s highways department in Ryedale, said the proposals include a no-loading traffic order on the north side of the Market Place and at its junctions with The Ropery, Burgate, Willowgate and Birdgate.

In addition, a loading-only bay will be made on the south side of the Market Place, and two parking bays for blue badge holders.

Mr Barr told councillors that the main problem to tackle was the amount of parking on the north side of the Market Place by blue badge holders, delivery vehicles and the public wanting to shop.

He said it hinders traffic flow and at times, creates tension between drivers and anxiety for pedestrians wanting to cross the road.

Mr Marr said he wanted the council’s views before carrying out a wider consultation in Pickering.

He added that changes would be made to traffic control in the Market Place, which would be subject to a year’s trial. If the proposals get the thumbs up from the public they could come into force next April.

Town clerk Andrew Husband said councillors were concerned about the planned number of loading and disabled parking bays which they felt were inadequate. They were also worried that the scheme could lead to a reduction in business.

Mr Husband said: “There was a consensus by the council that improvements are needed in the Market Place. The council was aware that there could be consequences for adjoining streets if the proposals go ahead.

“This might mean designating loading bays elsewhere, such as Park Street, and ensuring that blue badge holders are restricted from parking on double yellow lines on adjoining streets.”

Meanwhile, Pickering Civic Society is setting up a working party which would include councillors, the society, and other authorities to devise a strategy to improve parking in Pickering.