A PETITION opposing plans to close a York bridge to cars and motorbikes has topped 900 signatures.

City of York Council is to hold a six-month trial which will prevent most traffic using Lendal Bridge between 10.30am and 5pm every day, starting in August, with the authority saying it will improve bus services and cut congestion and pollution.

The scheme has been opposed by motorists and Leeds, York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce last month described it as “impractical”, saying it could damage businesses.

A petition set up on the council’s website calling for the closure plans to be scrapped now has been signed by 902 people, with a rival petition supporting the trial having 139 signatures.

Following the trial, a decision will be made on whether Lendal Bridge should be permanently closed to private vehicles during the day and, if so, whether the closure time should be extended.