Blue badge consultation launched

City of York Council has launched a consultation around the measures needed to restore Blue Badge access to York city centre.

The consultation asks Blue Badge holders and a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, to comment on five key areas. Responses will inform a decision at the October Council Executive and a more detailed second phase of consultation will follow soon after.

Blue Badge access consultation - Phase 1

The first phase of consultation will focus on the 5 principles that, if approved, will help shape an Executive report in October 2023.

Return to previous access - to revert to the Blue Badge accessibility measures that were in place before November 2021.

City centre events - some events may require Blue Badge access to be suspended at times (for example during the Christmas Markets)

Recognising security risks - the Police will have power to lock down all access to the city centre using an Anti-Terrorism Traffic Regulation Order

Finding solutions - if the Council Executive agrees to restore Blue Badge access through the new hostile vehicle barriers, then the council will work with badge holders on how to achieve this

Longer term improvements - we're committed to considering and implementing longer-term improvements to accessibility in the city

All responses will be collated to inform a decision at the Council Executive meeting in October 2023.  Ti take part in the blue Badge access consultation go to:  Blue Badge access consultation – City of York Council

If you're unable to complete the consultation survey online:

• visit any Explore Library, where we can help you to complete the form, or you can drop off completed forms
• contact our Customer Centre on telephone: 01904 551550 to request a paper copy and a freepost return envelope
• visit West Offices, where we can help you to complete the form, or you can drop off completed forms
• visit West Offices, if you require support using British Sign Language (BSL) and we’ll help you to access this service, you do not need to make an appointment

HOW TO REQUEST ALTERNATIVE FORMATS

If you require this questionnaire in an alternative format, such as braille or large print, email: cycaccessteam@york.gov.uk, or contact Customer Services on telephone: 01904 551550.

The consultation will close on Monday 18 September 2023.

If the 5 principles are approved following the Phase 1 consultation, they will be used to shape a report to the Council’s Executive in October 2023.

This report will outline the next steps, and will lead to a second, more detailed consultation on how Blue Badge access to York city centre will be restored.