York Council to discuss Christmas market blue badge parking changes

New proposals suggest that blue badge holders might be permitted to park in a city centre during its Christmas market. At present, blue badge holders are prohibited from parking in York city centre while the market operates, specifically between 10:30 and 19:00 GMT. After receiving criticism from disabled individuals, York Council is scheduled to discuss plans to modify this restriction, potentially granting access after 17:00. James Gilchrist, director of environment, transport and planning, stated in a report to the council executive that the existing plans would have a “significant impact on disabled people”. He commented: “The council remains committed to a Christmas market that facilitates blue badge holders’ vehicular access and will work with Make it York [the event organisers] to make this happen for 2025.“However, the planning for a Christmas market starts over a year in advance.“This urgent report has been requested by executive to review plans for 2024 and understand if blue badge holders’ vehicular access can be facilitated in some way this year.” Should this alteration be approved, blue badge holders would gain entry to their designated city centre route via Goodramgate, with the exception of Church Street, after 17:00. These proposals are set to be presented to councillors on Thursday, coinciding with the market’s opening day. The market is scheduled to operate until December 22. Kate Ravilious, a council transport spokesperson, informed the Local Democracy Reporting Service that officials would explore methods to provide access, following concerns from disabled individuals that the restrictions would prevent them from reaching shops and services. She had previously stated that the plans for the Christmas market were too far along to be modified for the current year. Additional options anticipated for consideration by councillors include allowing access after 17:00, but exclusively from Monday through Thursday. Another proposal suggests permitting them to drive in between 10:30 and 12:00. The Local Democracy Reporting Service has learned that the council’s preferred option is the proposal to grant blue badge holders access after 17:00 throughout the entire week.