Traffic restriction through Hartlepool town centre axed half way through trial

Hartlepool Borough Council introduced the temporary ban on vehicles other than buses, bicycles and yellow taxis in York Road between Victoria Road and Park Road in late September.

Set to be in place for six months, it was aimed at reducing traffic making it safer for pedestrians to step into the road while socially distancing during peak shopping hours.

But after listening to businesses and residents the council has decided to bring the trial to an end after three months and the restriction will be lifted from Monday, December 14.

Tony Hanson, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Director of Neighbourhoods and Regulatory Services, said: “Right from the very start, we made it clear that the trial would be subject to ongoing monitoring.

“Having consulted businesses prior to the introduction of the restriction, we felt it was appropriate to seek their views half way through the six-month experimental order.

"On listening to businesses and taking into account traffic surveys that have been undertaken, we feel it is appropriate to remove the restriction now rather than wait six months.”

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The restriction was in place daily between 10am-4pm with signs up to remind motorists.

The Department for Transport-funded initiative was also designed to encourage greener modes of travel such as cycling and walking to use the area.

Mr Hanson added: “The results of the trial will, however, be used to help us develop future sustainable travel initiatives across the town which will need to reflect people’s changing habits and the desire of many for a more sustainable, greener future.”

The decision to end the scheme early has been welcomed by Hartlepool MP Mike Hill who previously branded it ‘ridiculous’.

Mr Hill questioned the reasons for it linked to Covid-19 saying the road was not a natural pedestrian area due the metal barriers placed along that stretch of York Road.

Following the council’s decision he said: “Frankly, I’m not surprised.

"I believe it was an ill-thought-out decision in the first place and common sense has clearly prevailed.”

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