The nearly 1,500 responses received from the extensive public consultation regarding the York Station front project have had a positive impact on the project masterplan, leading to design changes that councillors will consider when they receive a project update at their Executive meeting on Thursday 29 November.
Councillors will also be asked to approve the submission of a planning application and the progression of the scheme to detailed design, including permission to enter into land acquisition negotiations with landowners.
The York Station front masterplan has four main aims, to:
- create new public spaces and a more inclusive, pedestrian-friendly experience;
- create an improved setting for the City Walls and other heritage buildings in the area and to present an impressive gateway into York;
- make it easier to change between modes of transport and
- keep vehicles and pedestrians apart.
Executive member for transport and planning, Cllr Peter Dew, said: “Travelling to and from the station is currently far from ideal. This amended masterplan will open-up the area, make it a substantially better experience for people, whatever mode of transport they choose as well as pay homage to the heritage sites around and to the front of the station.
“I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the consultation. Your contributions made a huge difference and the master plan has been revised in several key areas.”
Changes to the masterplan following the consultation include:
- Moving the cycleway on Queen Street to reduce conflict with on street parking spaces;
- Providing safe access for cyclists to the station from the west-bound carriageway;
- Provision for a suitable system for managing rail replacement buses and
- Incorporating appropriate counter-terrorism measures that are sympathetic to the station setting.
The station masterplan is based on eight key features which combine to improve how the space is used in front of York Station. Key to the plan is removing the Queen Street Bridge to create extra space, which would then be used to separate vehicle and pedestrian access, set out new open areas and showcase views of the City Walls.
Executive takes place on Thursday 29 November from 5.30pm and is open to members of the public or is available to watch live online from: www.york.gov.uk/webcasts