York Christmas Market has become one of the must-do attractions during the festive period. However, under new proposals aimed at improving the city’s events and how they operate, the number of days the market runs could be reduced.
Among the council’s plans for future markets are additional Blue Badge parking spaces, improved bus accessibility, dedicated quiet and rest areas, and more cycle parking and benches, the BBC reports.
City of York Council leaders say the measures are aimed at ensuring the safety and accessibility of future events. The proposals will go before council executives on 3 March, following a review of city centre events launched after the most recent Christmas market in December.
The short-term measures being considered could cost around £70,000, according to a council report, with longer-term plans set to be introduced in future years. The review is seen as vital, as city centre events contribute to the £2bn generated annually by York’s tourism and visitor economy.
Make It York estimates that the Christmas market alone contributes between £80m and £100m. However, the event has faced local criticism over its impact on traffic, reports of overcrowding and restrictions on Blue Badge access.
To address these concerns, dedicated quiet and rest areas could be introduced during events at venues such as St Sampson’s Centre, Spark and York Explore Library.
Speaking about the proposals, the council’s Labour leader, Claire Douglas, said: “In York we are all rightly proud of the wide range of events that take place across the city all year round, which bring joy to so many people and significant economic benefits. We are clear that events must be accessible to everyone and they must also be safe.”
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