York Council Announces Travel Changes for York Station Upgrade Starting June 1, 2026

The City of York Council has announced important travel information for residents and visitors as essential highway works around York Station are set to be completed. Starting on 1 June 2026, the project aims to improve the road surfaces and overall accessibility around the railway station, which serves as a key transport hub for the city. This construction work will be carried out in four stages, and the council has provided detailed plans to help everyone navigate through the changes.

Upcoming Works

As the work begins, it is crucial for people travelling to York to be aware of the upcoming changes. The construction will occur over several weeks, and here are the details for the first three weeks of work:

• Week 1: 1 June to 7 June - Nighttime works will involve closures from the entrance of the Milner Hotel to just beyond the Portico entrance.

• Week 2: 8 June to 12 June - Nighttime closures will run from the South Train Shed to near the Station Portico.

• Week 3: 15 June to 19 June - Work will continue from the South Train Shed to the junction with Blossom Street.

Week 4, covering 22 June to 26 June, will see additional work, and more information will be released soon. Each phase of the work is designed to ensure that the station area is not only functional but also more user-friendly for all modes of transport.

Planning Ahead

Councillor Kate Ravilious, the Executive Member for Transport, emphasised the importance of planning ahead. She stated:

“We are asking people to plan ahead over the coming weeks and have published detailed information for all modes of transport to help them get to the city centre and York Station.”

This advice is particularly relevant due to the nighttime works and the potential for traffic disruptions.

The council aims to minimise disruption as much as possible, encouraging the use of public transport, walking, and cycling during this period. They have also implemented measures to maintain pedestrian access throughout the works, ensuring that the gates at Lowther Terrace will remain open for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Transport Options

Public transport will continue to operate during the construction, although some bus routes will be diverted due to the ongoing works. To assist with this, free shuttle buses will run between Blossom Street and the station during the night closures. This will ensure that those travelling to and from the station can do so with minimal inconvenience.

For those needing to drive, it is important to note that while some access points will be restricted, alternative arrangements for Blue Badge holders and taxi drivers will be in place. The station’s long-stay car park will remain closed as Network Rail continues work on a new multi-storey car park, but short-stay parking options will still be available.

Further Developments

In addition to the immediate works, further nighttime closures are planned from 22 June to 26 June to tidy up the area, with additional work scheduled for 3 to 5 July to lay Hardicrete at the bus stops. This material is designed to prolong the life of the bus stop surfaces, enhancing the overall durability and usability of the transport interchange.

York Station is undergoing significant improvements as part of the York Station Gateway project, which was initially approved in 2021. The goal of this project is to create a better transport interchange and enhance public spaces around the station, making it easier and more enjoyable for people to travel through and enjoy the area.

The City of York Council encourages everyone to stay updated on the progress of the works and to check the official website for the latest information. This project not only aims to improve travel for residents and visitors but also enhances the overall experience at one of the city’s most important transport hubs.