City of York Council in partnership with the University of York, are proposing to undertake safety improvements and construct a cycle route alongside University Road to help make the area more accessible and safer for students and residents.

The proposed cycle path will extend along the northern side of University Road between Siwards Way and Innovation Way roundabouts, and will mainly be new construction within the existing verge area. The existing path areas near the library bus stops will be retained.

 

The safety improvements being proposed are being made in the vicinity of the bus stops near the Morrell Library and include:

· Off-road shared cycle/pedestrian facilities through the bus stop area,

· Crossing improvements incorporating two raised speed table crossings and four pairs of speed cushions within a 20mph Zone to maintain low traffic speeds, with removal of the existing central islands.

· Relocation of the eastbound bus stop to a position just to the west of Morrell Way.

· Construction of two new stepped accesses to Morrell Library, one providing more direct access to the overhead footbridge from Market Square and another from Morrell Way. The existing steps on the northern side of University Road to the Library are to be removed.

Tony Clarke, Head of Transport, said: “It is important that we continue to make York a safer place to live work and travel. I hope both residents and students will be forthcoming with responses to the consultation so they can have their say on the proposed changes.”

Fiona Macey, Travel Plan Co-ordinator at the University of York, said: “We are committed to sustainable traffic solutions, along with traffic calming measures such as 20mph on University Road, to ensure the safety of our students, staff and the local community.”

It is anticipated that work to implement the measures could take place during August and September, prior to the start of the new academic year.

Consultation documents have been sent to Councillors, Heslington Parish Council, and other interested parties on 6 June outlining the proposals. This information is also currently being displayed on the campus of the University of York in Heslington.

Anyone who would like to feedback their views on the proposals, can contact Shaun Harrison via email at Shaun.harrison@york.gov.uk no later than 29 June 2014.

To view the proposed scheme, and to find out more information please visit http://www.york.gov.uk/