York Station area transformation progresses with pedestrian-friendly upgrades

Countdown crossing and pedestrian diversions part of improvements

Author: Kathy GreenPublished 14th Feb 2026

The ongoing project to revamp the area around York Station continues to make progress, with further changes and upgrades set to take place in the coming weeks.

Recent enhancements have included paving near Queen Street, installation of new railings, and tree planting. Now, the area is poised to receive York’s first pedestrian crossing featuring a countdown timer, along with improvements to pavements and public spaces.

These modifications will necessitate pedestrian diversions and overnight lane closures as work continues.

Access to short stay parking, Blue Badge spaces, and Tea Room Square remains through the portico, without a right turn out of Tea Room Square. A diversion is in place via Lendal Gyratory for those heading toward Blossom Street, while cyclists and pedestrians retain access to the station.

Key upcoming works

From 16th to 20th February, night works to install a crossing outside the station will involve taxi diversions from current ranks to temporary locations, marked by signage and maintaining usual daytime status.

Additional night works from 23rd to 27th February will include minor footpath alterations at Tea Room Square and low-voltage duct installation across the temporary taxi rank.

Further activities from 2nd to 6th March involve a duct crossing installation on the main carriageway near York RI, requiring lane closure with temporary traffic lights.

Starting 9th March, duct crossing installation at the station front will employ temporary traffic lights, maintaining access alongside pedestrian diversions.

Daytime footway works, from 16th March for two weeks, will close the footpath outside The Milner York hotel for upgrades. Pedestrians will be rerouted during this period.

Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at the City of York Council, spoke on the transformative impact of these developments.

“These latest elements will transform the feel of the area, creating a pedestrian-friendly and welcoming gateway to the city," Ravilious said.

"This work will involve some disruption and inconvenience, and we appreciate everyone’s continued patience and cooperation.”

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