Next steps for York Central
Network Rail has submitted plans for a new accessible walking and cycling bridge connecting Holgate with the York Central development, replacing the existing Victorian footbridge that spans the railway between Wilton Rise and Cinder Lane.
Under the plans, the current bridge would be demolished and replaced with a four metre-wide, two-span steel girder structure.
Access on the Holgate side would be via Upper St Paul’s Terrace, with step-free routes provided through a system of ramps.
The bridge would significantly improve connections by replacing a structure that is currently inaccessible to many users, such as wheelchair users or people with prams.
The submission notes that any additional improvements linking the bridge to Holgate Road would be delivered by York Central development partners and do not form part of Network Rail’s proposal.
The plans follow public meetings held in September with Holgate residents and councillors, attended by Network Rail, Arlington Real Estate, and McLaren Regeneration.
At the time, Arlington’s managing director Allan Cook said there were contingency options to connect the new bridge to Holgate Road via Chancery Rise rather than Wilton Rise, which is an unadopted road and regarded as one of the worst in the city for potholes.
Network Rail’s planning documents confirm that the Chancery Rise option remains under consideration.
The proposed bridge would include ramps on both sides with flat sections and benches to provide rest points.
It would not be segregated for pedestrians and cyclists.
Connection to Upper St Paul’s Terrace would require demolishing an existing wall, and bollards would be installed to prevent vehicle access.
A temporary landing with steps on the Cinder Lane side would be used when the new bridge opens, remaining in place until the old bridge is removed.
Once demolition is complete, accessible links would be added on the Cinder Lane side, with the stairs retained to offer an alternative route.
The application also states the bridge would ultimately improve access to York Station via the planned Western Entrance, as the current route lacks step-free options.
