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Apr 2021

Business

Knaresborough pedestrianisation still on agenda despite 10 month wait

Published: 8 Apr 2021, 16:21 BST

by Connor Creaghan

Traffic cones, which were installed as a temporary social distancing measure in June, remain in place 10 months later as non-essential shops prepare to re-open on Monday.

knaresborough-pedestrianisation-temporary

The temporary social distancing cones on the High Street in Knaresborough.

North Yorkshire County Council has promised that a review into pedestrianisation in Knaresborough is still on the agenda despite a lack of action over the last 10 months.

Traffic cones, which were installed as a temporary social distancing measure in June, remain in place 10 months later as non-essential shops prepare to re-open on Monday.

By contrast, Harrogate's temporary cones were replaced with planters last year.

When Knaresborough's cones first went into place the county council committed to review the option of permanent pedestrianisation in Knaresborough.

Campaign for streets in Knaresborough to be pedestrianised

Harrogate and Knaresborough pedestrianisation extended

James Monaghan, chair of Knaresborough Civic Society, is disappointed by the lack of action and told the Stray Ferret:

"During the first lockdown there was a strong feeling that the way we lived had to change for the better.

"We see this as an opportunity for a better experience for residents, shoppers and tourists. Also to enhance Knaresborough’s public spaces.

"It is disappointing that 10 months later the review hasn’t even started, let alone any improvements be identified.

"This is frustrating when we can see pedestrianisation schemes being trialled and implemented in Harrogate.

"I understand the challenges faced by the highways department this winter. But I want to let those who supported our campaign know that we will continue to pursue this matter."

Mr Monaghan approached North Yorkshire County Council about the matter and Melisa Burnham, the highways area manager, sent the following in reply:

"Our teams have had to focus on the winter service and the covid test and vaccination centres.

"There is a current resource issue in terms of conducting a consultation at the present time.

"The timing to carry out such a consultation in the community may not be appropriate given the current lockdown. Funding for such a consultation must also be identified.

"I do want to reassure you that this is still firmly on our agenda to consider further.

"As you will be aware any pedestrianisation scheme would need to be implemented with a traffic regulation order, requiring a formal consultation."

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Knaresborough pedestrianisation still on agenda despite 10 month wait

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