Two Northampton roads set to become pedestrianised on Friday and Saturday nights

New traffic management measures are being introduced temporarily at The Ridings in Northampton from Friday, 4 September.

It aims to give pedestrians greater freedom to maintain two metres distance and reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Councillor Anna King, Cabinet member for community engagement and safety, said: “The safety of those who come to Northampton is our primary objective and from Friday visitors will have the additional reassurance of being able to use The Ridings and enjoy the experience free from traffic."

The measures will see the Ridings closed to traffic between 7.30pm to 2am every Friday and Saturday from Friday, 4 September until further notice.

The closure will be from the car park exit on the Ridings up to the junction with Fish Street.

However, as a left turn from Fish Street is prohibited, these measures will also lead to the closure of Dychurch Lane.

The road will be open as normal during the day. It will be an offence to attempt to drive a motor vehicle along The Ridings during the advised times and days. Any deliveries that require the use of The Ridings, should be rescheduled to be delivered outside of these times.

Councillor King added: "I encourage them to do just that while observing the requirements for social distancing.

“These changes will make it easier for people to maintain physical distance while, visiting local amenities, allowing for safer social distancing queue management protecting people from moving vehicles while delivering a more pleasant experience and supporting our night-time economy at this difficult time.”