TRADERS will come out of their shops to do business on the streets when one York thoroughfare closes to traffic on the city’s first-ever Car Free Day next week.

Fossgate will be closed from 8am to 5pm on Tuesday, enabling businesses to serve their customers on the street outside their premises.

Representatives from various cycling organisations will also be in Fossgate for the day to encourage people to get on their bikes.

Fossgate traders are the latest group of local businesses to pledge their support to Car Free Day, which aims to reduce traffic congestion in the city and show residents and visitors that there are a number of easy, healthy and cheaper alternatives to cars.

The traders are hoping the day will boost their long-standing aim of pedestrianising the street.

Big names such as Nestlé, National Express, Bettys and Taylors of Harrogate and Askham Bryan College are also urging their staff to leave their cars at home for the day.

Damon Copperthwaite, assistant director for transport and city development at City of York Council, said: “We hope the day will demonstrate to the public that leaving their car at home for one or more days a week can be a pleasant and relaxing experience.

“Whether they choose to walk, take the bus or cycle, we think that they will enjoy the change in routine and may even decide to travel without their car more often.

“We hope Car Free Day will highlight the growing problem of traffic congestion in the city and the impact of poor air quality on people’s health.”

To help commuters plan their bike journeys, cycle maps are available from libraries and the council reception at 9 St Leonard’s Place.

Major bus companies will be offering free pre-booked bus tickets on Car Free Day, with more information available at york.gov.uk