Major Traffic Shake-Up: Why Wrexham Is Closing Its City Centre to Most Vehicles

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Wrexham Council and North Wales Police have introduced strict new traffic restrictions aimed at making the city centre safer and more pedestrian-friendly. From mid-April 2025, vehicle access to Wrexham city centre has been heavily restricted, with only one entry point via Yorke Street open daily between 6:00am and 11:30am. After this time, rise-and-fall bollards close off access, and ANPR cameras enforce the ban, identifying vehicles allowed entry through an automatic approval list.

The move comes after concerns over anti-social behaviour, dangerous driving, and drink and drug-related incidents on High Street. The restrictions also coincide with major public realm improvements designed to create a more inviting space for pedestrians, including new paving, green spaces, street furniture, and enhanced outdoor seating opportunities for local businesses.

North Wales Police’s Wrexham Town team will enforce the new layout, with Sgt Sarah Hughes-Jones urging drivers to familiarize themselves with the changes. She acknowledged the challenges for some, particularly those with mobility issues, but stressed that public safety was the priority. Drivers breaching the new no-entry signs risk fines, and vehicles must exit the city centre by 11:30am unless they have specific dispensation.

The changes affect 11 roads, including Regent Street, Lambpit Street, Upper Town Hill, and Church Street, which previously allowed vehicle access but are now closed off. Yorke Street remains the sole access route during permitted hours.

Local businesses have expressed mixed reactions. Some fear the restrictions could hurt trade, while others, like the family-run Bank Small Plates restaurant, have introduced incentives such as reimbursing parking fees to encourage customers to continue visiting.

Residents and visitors have voiced differing opinions. While some, like Ronald Stevenson, a 77-year-old with mobility challenges, worry about accessibility, others praise the pedestrian-friendly environment for enhancing safety and the city’s appeal.

Wrexham Council’s lead for economy and regeneration, Nigel Williams, described the initiative as a “cultural shift” aimed at fostering a vibrant café culture and boosting local hospitality. He emphasized that the improvements, funded through multiple government grants, represent a significant investment in the city’s future.

As Wrexham adapts to these changes, authorities continue to monitor the impact on traffic flow, public safety, and business activity, hoping the new restrictions will transform the city centre into a safer, more welcoming destination for all.