Return of Whitby bridge closures to improve safety this summer
The traffic-free scheme on Whitby Swing Bridge which has been praised for supporting tourism in the town is set to restart next month. The closures will be re-introduced for the fifth year, after traffic congestion during peak tourism periods sparked safety concerns.
The bridge will be closed to traffic between 10.30am and 4pm daily during weekends in the school holidays as well as Bank Holidays and special events, with an exemption for buses. The first closures will come into force for the Easter school holidays on the weekend of 5 and 6 April.
Executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Keane Duncan, 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.”
As well as school and bank holidays, the traffic-free measure will be in place for Goth weekends on 26 and 27 April, and 1 and 2 November.
