Blue Badge holders notified of York’s Christmas Market arrangements

Temporary Road Closures for Blue Badge Holders During York’s Christmas Market

Blue Badge holders are being informed that two key routes into York city centre will be temporarily closed daily from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm during the Christmas market season, running from 14th November to 22nd December.

This marks the first closure since the routes were reopened, and access will remain available overnight between 7:00 pm and 10:30 am. The temporary closure is in line with the original agreement that during particularly busy periods—such as major events—these routes may need to be restricted to ensure public safety.

The decision was made following consultations involving disabled groups, local businesses, and residents, and was recommended by York’s multi-agency Safety Advisory Group.

City of York Council has also reached out to taxi companies to inform them of this change.

Councillor Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, stated:

“When we reopened these routes, we acknowledged that closures might be necessary during extremely busy times. The Christmas Markets are one of those occasions. In future, we hope to find ways to provide Blue Badge holders with continued access during these events, but this will require careful planning in partnership with Make it York.”

Blue Badge holders and taxi operators are being notified well in advance about this closure, which will be in effect from Thursday, 14th November to Sunday, 22nd December, between 10:30 am and 7:00 pm.

“This will be York’s first Christmas with the new permanent barriers in place, providing a safer and more attractive city centre environment during this busy period. While the temporary barriers served their purpose, I’m not sorry to see them replaced,” added Cllr Ravilious.