Water taxis could improve city's public transport

The transport strategy approved by councillors will be in place until 2040

Water taxis could be introduced in York as part of plans to cut traffic and create a better public transport network.

The Local Transport Strategy, which was approved by councillors earlier, is designed to cut car and van use by 20% by 2030, and could see more 20mph zones introduced.

City of York Council has also proposed "car-free days" when residents would be discouraged from driving.

The strategy's priorities are to reduce congestion, improve health and increase take-up of sustainable travel.

'Essential journeys'

The extra 20mph zones could be imposed in residential areas, the city centre, near schools, retail areas and villages and parks.

Julian Ridge, the council officer leading on the strategy, said the majority of residential streets in York already had 20mph speed limits.

Kate Ravilious, the senior Labour councillor responsible for transport, added that the council would always accept that some car journeys were "unavoidable and essential".

The authority said it would work with bus operators to improve services and would seek funding to increase route coverage.

Some bus routes in York are already fully electric

“York is on the cusp of an exciting transition,” Ms Ravilious added.

"I’m looking forward to seeing the city rise to the challenges we face and evolve to meet the needs of people today, tomorrow and over centuries to come."

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