Coventry city centre’s new pedestrian and cycle area as motorists warned of restrictions

From next week, drivers face new restrictions on where they can go in Coventry city centre. The ban on cars at certain times of the day is part of a new ‘pedestrian and cycle zone’ for streets near Broadgate and the cathedral.

Only licensed or otherwise ‘exempt’ drivers can use these roads between 10am and 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays, according to the rules. The move was approved by the council last week, May 23, and will take effect from June 3.

The area covers Cuckoo Lane, Greyfriars Lane, Hay Lane, High Street, Pepper Lane, Priory Row, St Michaels Avenue, Trinity Churchyard and part of Bayley Lane. The rules are introduced under an “experimental traffic order”.

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This means it will be reviewed after a year and a half and people have until December 2 to object to it being made permanent. Vehicles that are “exempted” from the new zone include buses, coaches and emergency services.

People who own property that is included in the zone can apply for permits, according to the order. A “reasonable statement” claimed the move would reduce traffic on the streets and improve safety, access and amenity.

Two more traffic changes will be introduced from next Monday. These are a new ‘No Trespassing’ rule banning access to the High Street from Little Park Street near the council house.

A driving ban will also be introduced on part of Bayley Lane by the Guildhall and Cathedral using locked bollards. The move comes less than a year after the council introduced a new bus gate for nearby roads, including Hales Street.

The schemes are part of a council plan to manage traffic in the city centre. A new red route and cycle track are part of this and were approved earlier this year.

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