What mayor’s transport plan means for Scarborough, Whitby, Filey

Those living in Scarborough and Whitby are being invited to help shape the future of transport across York and North Yorkshire as consultation events on the mayor’s draft transport strategy arrive on the Yorkshire coast next month.

The consultation feedback will help shape elected Mayor of York and North Yorkshire David Skaith’s draft Local Transport Plan, which aims to guide future investment in roads, buses, rail, cycling and walking infrastructure across the region.

People will be able to view the proposals, speak to officers and provide feedback on the draft plan at drop-in events on the coast.

The document identifies growing pressure on transport networks in larger towns including Scarborough, where increasing traffic levels are putting strain on roads and affecting all road users.

“Towns like Whitby, Scarborough and Filey have fewer through routes for passing trade and so benefit less from transport investment elsewhere,” the plan states.

It adds: “We will work with coastal communities to ensure the transport network better suits their needs, reducing inequalities between coastal areas and places further inland.”

Drop-in events are due to take place at:

• Whitby Market on Thursday, October 8, from 10am to 2pm
• Scarborough Indoor Market on Wednesday, October 14, from 10am to 2pm

Mr Skaith said: “This plan must reflect the needs of everyone who lives, works and travels across York and North Yorkshire.

“That’s why I’m asking for your views on the draft Mayor’s Local Transport Plan.

“My team will be heading across the county to get your views in person.

“You can also make your views heard by heading to our website. Please take part and help us shape the future of what transport looks like across our county.”

According to the draft plan, accommodating ambitious housing growth across York and North Yorkshire will require “more efficient ways” for people to travel around towns and cities without significantly increasing congestion.

The strategy is designed to support the delivery of 60,000 new homes across the region over the next decade while maintaining the reliability of the transport network.

The consultation is open online at https://yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk/local-transport-plan-consultation/. Residents are also able to submit written responses before the final transport strategy is agreed.

The Combined Authority said the plan would provide a long-term vision for improving transport connections and will influence future spending decisions on roads, buses, rail services, walking, and cycling infrastructure.

The authority argues that better transport links can improve access to employment, education, healthcare and leisure opportunities while supporting economic growth and reducing environmental impacts.

For Scarborough and Whitby residents, the consultation comes amid continuing concerns about issues including the A64, local bus provision, rail services and transport links between coastal communities and the rest of North Yorkshire.