Measures under way to cut station-area traffic crowding

The station has long been a congestion hotspot where through traffic is swelled by drivers trying to pick up rail passengers or simply circling the area in search of parking spaces. The area is also busy with taxis and mini-cabs.

Now York Council's transport chiefs are working with East Coast and Network Rail to look at ways of making traffic run more smoothly in the area.

Council leaders will be asked to approve plans for the council to continue reviewing possible alternative solutions at a meeting later this month.

A council spokesman said yesterday: "Initial investigations have already identified a number of areas where improvements could be made to improve the flow of traffic in Tea Room Square.

"A detailed capacity study is currently being undertaken by East Coast into their station car parking arrangements, which may also impact on the final solution.

"If agreed, East Coast, Network Rail and council officers will set up a review to consider any short, medium and long-term initiatives."

"Any improvements to York Railway Station will contribute to the council's priority in promoting a thriving city by reducing traffic congestion, whilst reducing vehicle emissions, making York a more sustainable city and attracting more visitors the area."

York's current rail station, designed by North Eastern Railway architects, opened in 1877 when it had 13 platforms and was the largest station in the world.

At 5.30am on June 25, 1877, the first train left the new station, bound for Scarborough.

The station took three years to build and underlined York's status at the network's heart. Designed on a curve, it was labelled "a monument to extravagance".