THE HGV ban consultation on the level crossing between Malton and Norton has been extended following the recent vandalism to traffic sensors.

In February, an experimental 18-month heavy goods vehicle ban was put in place on the level crossing between the two towns, prohibiting goods vehicles with an operating weight exceeding 7.5 tonnes.

Since the ban begun, North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) has been monitoring the movement of HGVs in the area to enable it to gauge the effectiveness of the ban and to consider its next steps.

Vandals, however, have repeatedly damaged traffic counters put in place to monitor the movements of HGVs.

Although the statutory six-month period for objecting to the continuation of the order indefinitely has passed, the county council will now take representations until May 1, 2019, into account before making a final decision.

The ban is among measures designed to improve air quality in the area by removing HGVs from the town centre and on to the A64.

County Councillor Don Mackenzie, executive member for highways, said: “We want to improve the environment for residents and visitors to Malton and Norton and the experimental ban is part of that work, but we have to be able to monitor it effectively to understand its impact and consider whether to make it permanent or whether changes are needed.’’

Anyone with any information about the vandalism is asked to phone North Yorkshire Police on 101 and pass information to the Force Control Room or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 12180172080.

Anyone wanting to make representations should do so in writing to Area 4 Kirby Misperton Highways Office, Beansheaf Industrial Park, Tofts Road, Kirby Misperton, Malton, YO17 6BG, or by emailing area4.kirbymisperton@northyorks.gov.uk