One-way traffic plan for Leeman road tunnel could lead to York gridlock

York could face gridlock if the council doesn't do a U-turn on some of its road closure plans.

The City of York Conservative Group has said it opposes City of York Council’s plan to make Marble Arch (Leeman Road Tunnel) one-way to traffic at any one time with new traffic light signalling.

The group believes the change will distort journeys by people being forced into taking needless lengthier diversions and leave citizens and visitors sat in congestion, with those going through the Leeman Road tunnel facing guaranteed slower journeys, which will increase pollution.

They also say It will also be seen as yet another anti car measure by the Lib Dems and Greens and will discourage people visiting the city centre, when with the effect of Covid-19, visitors are now more vitally needed than ever.

Tory Group Leader, Cllr Paul Doughty

Conservative Group Leader Paul Doughty said,

“With the Lib Dems spend on the York Central development looking increasingly over budget and out of control and even a fallout with the Greens over the project, costs must be looked at.

Plans for the tunnel are a cost that actually makes things worse. It will be seen as anti car, discourage much needed city centre visitors and is a further barrier for city businesses.

It will increase journey times on Leeman Road but also adding congestion to Holgate Road, Bootham and the Station Rise / Lendal gyratory. All adding to pollution. 

We believe the council should stop its plans for traffic lights and one way travel.

Instead, they should invest in improving the look and feel of the tunnel for those passing through, together with lighting and safety improvements for the Riverside pedestrian and cycle path, these are the issues that concern people.”

Reaction from the Greens and Lib Dems to follow:

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