CALLS are being made to extend a six-month consultation on a HGV ban through the centre of Malton and Norton after a series of setbacks have delayed its enforcement.

An experimental 18-month HGV ban on vehicles of more than 7.5 tonnes crossing the level crossing officially started on February 26 - though due to wintry weather, signage in the towns was not put up until mid-March.

The consultation period of six months on the ban, which aims to prevent congestion and improve air quality in the area, particularly at Butcher Corner in Malton, is due to end this month.

However, councillors are now asking for this to be extended for more evidence to be collected before a final decision on the restriction is made.

Norton county councillor Keane Duncan said: “The HGV ban is proving to have disastrous knock-on effects, not only within Norton and Malton, but also on nearby villages.

“Large volumes of traffic are being pushed along Highfield Road in Malton, cul-de-sacs have become turning circles for HGVs and our village roads have been turned into a makeshift bypass.

“I worried the HGV ban is trying to solve one problem by creating a raft of others.”

The ban is being enforced by North Yorkshire County Council’s Trading Standards, and about 20 lorries are currently under investigation for breach of the restriction.

Cllr Duncan said he was now calling for an extension to the six-month consultation period, due to end this month, so all parties can have their say.

He said: “North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) is now due to decide whether this temporary 18-month restriction becomes permanent.

“This decision will have far-reaching and long-lasting effects. It is vital we get it right.

“A series of setbacks mean the ban has in fact only been in force a few months. Enforcement has been sporadic to say the least and even now signage on the bypass is still to be erected.

“On that basis, I am struggling to see how we can make a fair and effective decision at this point in time.

“This six-month window is simply not long enough to draw a conclusion. More time is needed.”

Members of Norton Town Council have also agreed to write to NYCC asking for an extension of the consultation.

Cllr David Lloyd Williams said: “The concerns of local people need to be listened to and taken note of. The changes to the level crossing junction have had a knock-on effect throughout the town with many streets becoming ‘rat runs’ for traffic.”

A spokesman for NYCC said: “We are continuing to monitor the effects of the HGV weight restriction and the next traffic count has been scheduled for the week beginning September 10.

“We welcome comments from residents and other interested parties and a full report will be made to the Thirsk and Malton Area Constituency Committee. We are working with Highways England to get the weight limit on the level crossing signposted on the A64.’’

Comments on the HGV restrictions should be emailed to Area4.KirbyMisperton@northyorks.gov.uk