City of York Council has announced when limited city centre access for Blue Badge holders will begin.

The access ruling - which was originally set to prohibit Blue Badge holders from entering the city centre between 10.30am and 7pm during the Christmas Market - was changed at a council meeting last week.

Following the council’s Executive decision on November 14, it has been confirmed that Blue Badge holders can start accessing the city centre from 5pm on Tuesday, November 26.

"The delay in implementing the new access arrangements is to allow time for a suitable temporary barrier to be fixed in Church Street to protect people in and around the busy market areas," said a council spokesperson.

Blue Badge holders will be able to enter the city centre through the anti-terror bollards in Goodramgate from 5pm during the Christmas market period.

There will also be access via Blake Street from 7pm-10.30am for the same period.

James Gilchrist, Director of Environment, Transport and Planning at City of York Council, said: "Working at short notice with the UK’s only provider, we’ve secured an anti-terrorism barrier for Church Street to protect those working in and visiting the markets.

"Once it’s installed, holders of a valid Blue Badge can drive or be driven into the city centre via the staffed Goodramgate barriers from November 26, 5pm-7pm. After 7pm, all vehicles can freely enter via all entrances to the city centre.

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"We are notifying York-based Blue Badge holders and taxi operators of this update."

Blue Badge holders can only park in Goodramgate during the times they are allowed access, as the council says this is because it is wider than Colliergate.

Shambles market traders will also be using this route from 5pm onwards to pack up and head home.

A spokesperson added: "Blue Badge holders booking a return taxi journey must arrange to be picked up outside the barriered area.

"The council recognises that the revised Blue Badge holders’ access arrangements are still limited and is committed to working with partners to improve access for next year’s Christmas market."