Tories demand Lendal Bridge refunds for all

The council’s cabinet has agreed to end its legal action relating to whether it had the power to impose fines drivers who used the Bridge and refund the money.

But the Conservatives argue that it is unfair drivers will only receive a refund if they pro-actively apply.

Conservative group leader Chris Steward said: “By foolishly hoping that only those motorists who follow events in the local media or who access the council website learn about their refund policy they are excluding motorists from other parts of the country and this will only compound the severe damage that has already been done to York’s reputation as a welcoming tourist city.”

A York Labour spokesman said: “It is disappointing Conservatives and Liberal Democrats working together have ignored Labour’s appeal for them not to delay these fines being paid back using constitutional tricks.

“They would rather politically point score than allow the public to have clarity.”