York’s Christmas Market will open later this year to improve accessibility for visitors with disabilities. The city council has delayed the daily start of the market by 30 minutes, so it will now open at 10:30 GMT. The move aims to give blue badge holders extra time to enter and leave the city centre safely during the six-week festive event, which begins on 13 November.
The change comes after North Yorkshire Police requested an Anti-Terror Traffic Regulation Order (ATTRO) for the market. Under the order, no vehicles apart from emergency services will be allowed on city centre streets while the market is operating, from 10:30 to 19:00. Council leader Claire Douglas said the council had little choice but to agree to the arrangements this year. She added, “There needs to be an absolute focus on making this work, we can’t go on like this every year.”
Chief Constable Tim Forber explained that the ATTRO is designed to prevent vehicle attacks, which have previously targeted Christmas markets and other public gatherings. However, some visitors with disabilities have expressed concern that the restrictions could limit access to city centre services and shops during the festive season.
To mitigate these challenges, the council has approved a number of measures. A loading bay in Duncombe Place will temporarily become additional blue badge parking spaces. The council is also providing £5,000 to fund free mobility aid hires through the charity Shopmobility. Certain vehicles, including council waste collection, Boots deliveries, and Royal Mail services, will be exempt from the ATTRO. Vehicles left in the city centre after 10:30 GMT risk penalty charge notices and towing, due to a temporary loading and waiting ban.
Council officials have said they will review the market’s arrangements and consider how future events can better accommodate all residents and visitors. Ms Douglas emphasised that the council wants the market to function effectively without compromising accessibility. These adjustments demonstrate a commitment to balancing public safety with the needs of people with disabilities.
This year’s delayed opening ensures that York’s Christmas Market remains a welcoming and safe event, allowing everyone to enjoy the festive atmosphere while maintaining essential security measures. Visitors can plan their trips knowing there are extra facilities in place to support mobility and access, making the market a celebration that includes all members of the community.
York’s Christmas Market accessibility improvements highlight the city’s efforts to make major events inclusive while maintaining safety.
