A public consultation is set to be requested on the long-running debate over pedestrianising one of Ripon’s most historic streets.
Members of North Yorkshire Council’s Skipton and Ripon Area Committee today backed a proposal asking for a consultation on the future management of Kirkgate, which links the city centre with Ripon Cathedral.
The decision follows a petition signed by 868 people calling for progress on pedestrianisation.
Campaigners have suggested restricting traffic between 10am and 5pm, extending to 9pm during the summer, potentially using automatic rising bollards.
They argue the changes could create a safer and more attractive environment for pedestrians while increasing footfall and supporting businesses.
However, concerns have also been raised about access for residents, emergency vehicles and disabled people, as well as the practicalities of introducing restrictions on the narrow historic street.
Jeremy Dunford, of Ripon Disability Forum, spoke in support of a consultation at today’s meeting.
He said:
“Kirkgate is already a designated pedestrian zone, but it lacks a coherent management strategy.
“Its successful theatre festival and seasonal events demonstrate how pedestrian activity can increase footfall and business income, but each requires special consent and a road closure fee.
“We are requesting consultation on a practical management plan for this 90-metre stretch, prioritising pedestrians, improving access for residents and visitors, and supporting businesses.”
Mr Dunford said vehicles currently entered throughout the day and sometimes parked on pavements, while street furniture could also cause difficulties.
He added:
“Pedestrians must therefore negotiate obstructed pavements, uneven surfaces and moving vehicles.
“Disabled and older people are particularly disadvantaged.”
Ripon councillor Andrew Williams proposed that a consultation should take place, although he stressed there was not unanimous support for further pedestrianisation.
He said:
“This has been an issue which has perplexed residents and business owners for some considerable time.
“The city council broadly supports having a trial to see whether pedestrianisation is something that could actually deliver the benefits which have been referred to.”
But Cllr Williams, who represents the Ripon Minster and Moorside division, said he had also received complaints from residents of Kirkgate and Court Terrace who were concerned about the proposals.
He said a detailed consultation would allow everyone’s views to be heard and potential solutions to practical problems to be explored.
His proposal was seconded by Ripon Ure Bank and Spa councillor Barbara Brodigan, who argued changes to Kirkgate should be considered as part of wider ambitions for the city rather than simply as a highways issue.
She said:
“Pedestrianisation of Kirkgate fits with the wider ambition for a Cathedral Quarter and to make the city more attractive.
“I feel this should be considered as part of a wider placemaking strategy rather than simply as an isolated highways scheme.”
Cllr Brodigan said questions surrounding access, traffic management, emergency vehicles and heritage should be examined through consultation and a feasibility study rather than preventing further investigation.
She added:
“On those grounds, I feel the public should decide.
“Residents, businesses, visitors, people with disabilities, emergency services and residents who require vehicle access should all have the opportunity to comment through a properly designed public consultation before a decision is made.”
Previous attempts to progress further pedestrianisation have encountered difficulties because properties require vehicle access through Kirkgate.
Council officers have also highlighted the narrow width of the street, emergency access requirements and its sensitive historic setting.
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