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10
Nov
Retractable bollard proposed to stop motorists using Ripon market square as a rat-run
A retractable bollard could be installed outside Caffè Nero in Ripon in a bid to stop motorists illegally using the market square's pedestrian zone as a shortcut.
The proposal was backed unanimously by Ripon City Council at its latest meeting last night (November 9), following concerns that drivers are putting pedestrians at risk.
Councillor Andrew Williams, the city's mayor, told councillors he had been discussing the issue with North Yorkshire Council, which is the highways authority, and had also spoken to Caffè Nero about possible action.
The north side of the market square is designated as a pedestrian zone, where vehicles are only permitted for loading.
However, some motorists are ignoring the restrictions and driving past Greggs to avoid having to circulate the square.
The sign tells motorists the road is for loading-only.
The shortcut brings vehicles out close to a pedestrian crossing, raising concerns about the risk of an accident.
Cllr Williams said some drivers were emerging from the restricted area when the pedestrian crossing was showing red for traffic.
He told the meeting:
Drivers are deciding that rather than drive around the market square they drive past Greggs instead. They are using it as a rat-run and sometimes come out on to the pelican crossing when it is on red, which is dangerous.
The loading area north of the market square.
He suggested asking North Yorkshire Council to introduce a traffic order to enable a retractable bollard to be installed outside Caffè Nero.
A traffic order would provide a formal process for the proposal to be considered, including a public consultation giving people the opportunity to express their views.
Councillors unanimously supported the motion.
The decision does not mean a bollard will automatically be installed. North Yorkshire Council, as the highways authority, will now have to consider whether to take the proposal forward.
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