A LANDMARK bridge in North Yorkshire will be closing to cars on weekends for the next few weeks.

Whitby Swing Bridge is set to be pedestrian-only - apart from buses - for the next three weekends ahead of an expected increase in visitor numbers.

The closures will coincide with Whitby Regatta and Folk Week (August 17-19), the August Bank Holiday (August 24-26) and final weekend of the school summer holidays (August 31-September 1).

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A spokesperson for the council said the move aims to improve safety and to support the town’s economy.

After the closures, there will be two additional closures later in the year – one for October half-term and the second during the Whitby Goth Weekend from November 2 to 3.

Speaking about an earlier closure back in April, Cllr Neil Swannick, who represents the Whitby Streonshalh division on North Yorkshire Council, said: "The bridge closures are essential in addressing safety concerns around overcrowding, as we expect visitor numbers to be at an all-time high for another year.

"Whilst this measure will undoubtedly be seen as an inconvenience by some, I am sure that residents, local businesses and visitors, will understand the need for a traffic-free zone at peak times in the interests of safety."