A COUNCILLOR has criticised the closure of a York road, saying it will inconvenience elderly bus passengers and pointing out that bus users were not properly informed.

Andy D’Agorne, Green councillor for Fishergate, said City of York Council also ruled out his suggestion of an alternative route for bus services affected by the closure of Heslington Lane this week.

Affected routes include Numbers 24 and 26 and evening services of the 415, which will be diverted along Anson Drive, Danum Road and The Link.

Coun D’Agorne suggested a route along The Link and Grants Avenue, which he claimed would pass more residents and fewer parked cars.

“The chosen diversion route will take almost as long because of the parking, but will miss out the residents in the Heslington Lane area,” said Coun D’Agorne.

“I was told by the council that my suggestion will be passed on, but it was unlikely the private bus companies would be prepared to go the extra distance.”

City of York Council sent letters to residents, advising of the closure of Heslington Lane from today until Friday.

The letters stated: “Notices will be posted at affected bus stops to make the public aware of the revised routeing”.

But Coun D’Agorne said nothing had been posted by the council and he had put up his own signs at affected stops to warn bus users.

“I’ve been out on Easter Monday putting up signs advising bus users that the service has been diverted, because otherwise they may never know.

“Obviously, I understand the work has got to be carried out, but I feel that more consideration could have been shown by the council for elderly residents and bus users,” he said.

City of York Council was unavailable for comment but previously a spokesman confirmed the road closure was timed to coincide with the school holidays to minimise traffic disruption.