BOLLARDS in York city centre have been reinstalled - after concerns about people driving down roads they should not be and motorists going too fast.

Some bollards in city centre streets are put up and removed on a daily schedule - but this programme was suspended on March 23 when the Coronavirus lockdown began, so that council staff could focus on vital services.

But councillor Andy D’Agorne, executive member for transport, said that in response for worries about speeding and use of pedestrianised streets as shortcuts, the programme of putting bollards up and taking them down will start again.

He said: “I am grateful to officers for the quick response following comments that city centre residents and key workers had noted increased abuse of footstrèets by some drivers since we stopped putting bollards in place.

“Even outside the footstreet hours there is a 10mph speed limit and drivers should not be there other than for essential travel to or from city centre premises.

“Drivers anywhere need to be aware that pedestrians may be stepping into or walking in the road to maintain a safe distance from other people.

“Staying on main roads for essential journeys makes it easier for those walking and cycling to save lives by keeping their distance from others.”

The York BID team was also praised for helping to keep the city centre safe for pedestrians during the lockdown.

Cllr D’Agorne has also asked council officers to urgently look at whether extra space could be found in York for people to exercise while keeping 2m apart - possibly by closing some streets.

He said: “With the stay home message, far more people are out walking about.

“While the dramatic drop in traffic on the roads has increased danger from some drivers speeding, people are walking in the road to keep their distance from others walking the other way. Temporary changes to discourage speeding in side streets and make better use of road space for exercise would be appreciated by many at this time.”

Cllr D’Agorne has asked residents to tell ward councillors where space is needed most.