A traffic-free scheme on Whitby Swing Bridge, praised for boosting tourism and improving safety, is set to return next month for its fifth year.
North Yorkshire Council has confirmed that the bridge will be closed to vehicles between 10.30am and 4pm during weekends in school holidays, as well as on Bank Holidays and special events. Buses will be exempt from the restrictions. The first closures will take place over the Easter holidays on April 5 and 6.
Cllr Keane Duncan, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transport, said: “The continued popularity of Whitby is a real show of strength for North Yorkshire’s tourist economy, but it’s vital we manage this in a safe way for all. Closing Whitby Swing Bridge to traffic at the busiest times of the summer season has proven absolutely key and has generated positive feedback from local businesses. Continuing the closures this year will once again ensure Whitby residents and visitors can enjoy the town safely.”
In addition to school and bank holiday periods, the bridge will also be closed for Whitby’s popular Goth weekends on April 26-27 and November 1-2.
Cllr Neil Swannick, who represents the Whitby Streonshalh division, said: “We have another year of popular events taking place in Whitby, and we know how important school holidays are for the tourist economy in the town. We will have signage in place and will be monitoring traffic flow to ensure the scheme continues to be smoothly coordinated and allows pedestrians to use the bridge safely at all times.”
Cllr Phil Trumper, who represents the Whitby West division, added: “The pedestrianisation of the bridge is essential in improving safety and addressing concerns of overcrowding around the swing bridge area. We hope that both residents and visitors see that the benefits of the closures outweigh the inconvenience they can have on road users.”
Tourism plays a huge role in Whitby’s economy, generating £353.8 million each year and attracting two million visitors annually. The sector also supports more than 3,500 jobs in the area.
The historic swing bridge, built in 1908, spans 75 feet and connects the east and west sides of the town. The traffic-free scheme has helped create a safer and more enjoyable experience for the many visitors who flock to Whitby each year.
