Local Harrogate News & Views around the district - Page 163 of 1037

Police seek wanted Harrogate man

Police have appealed for information on a wanted man from Harrogate.

Bailey George Samuel Townend, 21, is believed to be evading arrest after being recalled back to prison.

He was released from prison on licence on November 1, 2023, after being handed a 51-week custodial sentence for burglary and theft offences.

However, the Probation Service has reported that Townend has failed to reside at approved accommodation in Leeds, thereby breaching his licence.

A North Yorkshire Police statement said:

“Police enquiries are ongoing in the Harrogate and Leeds areas in the effort to return Townend to prison.

“Townend is described as white, 5ft 8in tall, slim build, with short brown hair and green eyes.

If you can help us track him down, please report information to North Yorkshire Police on 101, option 4, and speak to the Force Control Room.

“For immediate sightings, dial 999 to ensure a rapid response.

“Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.

Please quote reference number 12230220557 when providing details.”

Parking charges introduced at Weeton railway station

Parking charges will be introduced at Weeton Station in a fortnight’s time.

Northern Railway has announced it is one of 10 station where charges are being brought in.

From Monday, December 11, motorists will have to pay £2 per day between 8am and 4pm on their phones to park at Weeton.

Northern said the charges would “ensure car parking facilities remain available for rail users only” but the move has sparked fears about the impact on parking in the village.

One resident, who asked not to be named, said:

“There is already a problem locally with how inconsiderately rail users park on the roads around the station.

“This will only make it worse.”

Northern said in a statement:

“We know that the introduction of charges might be unwelcome news for some customers and colleagues, and we’re committed to keeping our car park arrangements under review to ensure they meet the needs of colleagues and customers alike.”

Northern said, in line with the approach taken by councils and parking companies, the machines will be cashless.

It means people will not be able to pay for parking through the ticket offices or onboard any of the services; they will have to pay via phone, smartphone or app.

None of the other rail stations in the north of England where parking charges are being introduced on December 10 are in the Harrogate district.

The other locations include Poppleton, Buckshaw Parkway and Snaith.

But motorists already have to pay to park at many local stations. For instance, Harrogate charges £4 per day and Pannal charges £3 per day.

Local politicians give views on Harrogate Spring Water expansion plans

The Liberal Democrat candidate aiming to be Harrogate and Knaresborough’s next MP has said he opposes the latest expansion plans by Harrogate Spring Water.

However, the current Conservative MP Andrew Jones has not given an explicit indication of whether he supports or opposes the plans.

Harrogate Spring Water revealed proposals this month to fell 450 trees near its Harlow Moor Drive headquarters so it can expand its bottling plant and produce more plastic bottles.

It says the scheme will create 50 jobs and lead to a net biodiversity gain because it will create a 1,200-tree publicly accessible woodland nearby.

But the campaign group Save Rotary Wood is leading opposition to the loss of trees, which were planted by schoolchildren concerned about climate change.

Harrogate Spring Water, which is owned by French multinational Danone, is holding a public consultation event at the Crown Hotel in Harrogate from 4pm to 7pm tomorrow (Thursday, November 30).

Ahead of the meeting, we asked Mr Jones and Mr Gordon for their views on the subject.

Mr Gordon said:

“Whilst I absolutely want to see more jobs in Harrogate, and the benefit that would bring for our local economy, I do not support the plans in their current form.

“We should be protecting woodland and preserving biodiversity; to suggest there will be a net gain is not guaranteed, as it would take years for new trees to mature.”

Mr Jones gave a lengthier response but did not state explicitly whether he supported the proposal.

He said:

“The level of community engagement by Harrogate Spring Water on their latest application is a significant and welcome improvement on their previous attempt to achieve approval for their extension. That public consultation is critical as the outcome will rightly be a significant part of the considerations of the Harrogate and Knaresborough planning committee when they look at the application.

“The environmental offer is a big improvement on what we saw previously. And that is important, as constituents to whom I have spoken want significant additional tree planting and public access to that new woodland if the council are minded to approve the proposals.

“On the face of it, replacing trees that are lost on a 3-to-1 or a 6-to-1 ratio is a large increase in cover. The concern is that saplings will be replacing trees with 25 years’ growth. I have spoken to people who helped plant saplings in Rotary Wood all those years ago and I can understand why that is a very emotive part of these plans.”

Mr Jones added:

“Having said that, it is also important to acknowledge that Harrogate Water is a successful local business that carries the name of our town across the world. I want that success to continue and to grow.

“So a welcome for the vastly improved public engagement, a welcome for the increased environmental offer alongside public access and a recognition that we want successful businesses locally. But I understand the caution about habitat loss and the loss of an area enjoyed by many for recreation.

“There is a public consultation event this week which can help further shape the proposals. I encourage everyone with an interest to attend that meeting and help ensure that the planners get the best possible application to consider.”

Farmers urged not to leave mud on North Yorkshire roads

Farmers and lorry drivers in North Yorkshire are being urged not to leave mud on the roads.

North Yorkshire Council said today people have been in touch reporting muddy roads following the recent wet spell.

It prompted the council to call on drivers of agricultural and construction vehicles to be responsible when using public routes.

Cllr Keane Duncan, the council’s executive member for highways and transportation, said:

“We understand that this is a busy time in the farming calendar, and that this year the prolonged period of rain is likely to have made conditions worse than usual.

“However, that makes it more important than ever that if farmers or construction vehicle drivers do need to use public roads, they take their responsibilities seriously.”

Cllr Duncan added drivers leaving mud risked legal action:

“If mud on the road results in injury, damage to property, loss or inconvenience, legal action can follow, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.”

The council said farmers or construction vehicle operators must:

Keep to their own farm roads whenever possible.
Keep to low speeds and prevent mud from being deposited by removing any excess before driving on to roads.
Be prepared to hire equipment to promptly remove deposits.
Use authorised signs prominently positioned for road users to see.
Clean the road as necessary during the working day and always at the end.
Ensure that equipment and labour is available and is suitable for the soil and weather conditions.
When using a contractor, ensure agreement is reached beforehand on who is responsible for mud on the road (signs, cleaning etc) and that suitable public liability insurance is in place.

You can report mud on the road here.

Season high crowd watch Harrogate fightback against Wrexham

More than 3,700 fans watched Harrogate Town fight back to draw against Hollywood-backed Wrexham FC.

The highest crowd of the season so far braved the cold temperatures to see Harrogate earn a point against the newly promoted side.]

Build up to the game centred around whether Wrexham’s A-list owner Ryan Reynolds and co-owner, fellow actor Rob McElhenney, would make the visit to the EnviroVent Stadium.

Club officials cited the “Hollywood factor” as the reason behind the Wetherby Road side’s fastest selling game.

Instead, all the focus was on the pitch and the small matter of three points being up for grabs.

Wrexham went 2-0 up with strikes from Andy Cannon and Elliott Lee. However, Dean Cornelius reduced the deficit with a goal before half time.

Early in the second half, Andy O’Conner brought Town level with a header from a free kick.

Both Wrexham and Harrogate had chances to take all three points, but in the end shared the spoils.

A crowd of 3,767 – the highest of the season so far – watched the spectacle.

Wrexham fans also packed the newly opened away end at the EnviroVent Stadium after making the 115 mile trip on a Tuesday night.

While the “Hollywood factor” was cited as a reason for those flocking to Wetherby Road, Town will be hoping to build upon the support as they look to secure their EFL League Two status this season.

Council plans to bring North Yorkshire leisure services in-house

North Yorkshire Council looks set to bring the entirety of its leisure services in-house.

The move would consolidate its operators, including Brimhams Active, into an in-house service over the next four years.

North Yorkshire Council’s transition overview and scrutiny committee will consider the proposal at a meeting on Monday (December 4).

Cllr Simon Myers, executive councillor for culture, arts and housing at North Yorkshire Council, said:

“The strategic leisure review provides us with an exciting opportunity to transform the delivery of our leisure service and improve outcomes for communities across North Yorkshire.

“What we are recommending puts us at the forefront of a national movement to transform services with a renewed focus on physical and mental health and wider well-being.”

The recommendations follow the first phase of the council’s strategic leisure review, which includedinput from communities and sports groups, as well as organisations such as Sport England and North Yorkshire Sport.

A cross-party working group of councillors visited sites throughout North Yorkshire and their feedback also informed the proposals.

The council said the proposals will build on current best practice, expertise and experience and aim to transform leisure centres into sport and active well-being hubs.

Meanwhile, a report to the committee also recommends carrying out a leisure investment strategy, which will include a review of each leisure site.

The report added:

“This will build on the work already undertaken from the asset condition surveys and will consider further the condition of each site, future role and sustainability as a part of the new delivery model.”

The move comes as Brimhams Active, which was set up by the former Harrogate Borough Council in 2021, recently completed multi-million pound refurbishments at the Harrogate Leisure and Wellness Centre and Knaresborough Leisure and Wellness Centre.

The company was set up following a strategic review carried out by the borough council, which recommended a local authority controlled company called Brimhams Active be formed to run leisure services in the district.

Its sites include Harrogate Leisure and Wellness Centre, Knaresborough Leisure and Wellness Centre, the Jack Laugher Leisure and Wellness Centre in Ripon and Nidderdale Leisure and Wellness Centre in Pateley Bridge.

Harrogate Christmas Fayre takes shape ahead of return this week

The installation of Harrogate Christmas Fayre is underway ahead of its return this week.

The fayre, which will run for 17 days, will feature 50 trade stalls around Cambridge Street selling festive food and drink, gifts, jewellery, homeware and more.

There will also be carol singers and live entertainment.

Families also can look forward to the return of the Candy Cane Express road train, which takes them on a ride around the town centre, as well as an open-top bus with a tour guide to learn about Harrogate‘s landmarks.

The Candy Cane Express. Credit: Smart Avenue Media

The Christmas fayre was extended to run over three weekends, rather than two as previously, in April this year.

Organisers Destination Harrogate and Market Place Europe announced the news after local hoteliers and businesses called for an extension to support them further.

In the announcement, John McGivern, events manager at Destination Harrogate, said the extension would provide “an excellent opportunity to boost our visitor economy even further at a crucial time of year.”

The Harrogate Christmas Fayre will return on Friday, December 1.

It will run from 10am – 7pm from Monday to Saturday, and 11am – 4pm on Sundays.

Harrogate Ice Rink. Credit: Smart Avenue Media

Harrogate Ice Rink, which will also return on Friday, will be in Crescent Gardens along with a carousel, bungee trampolines and game stalls as part of the fayre.

In addition, the festive Little Bird Market can be found in Harrogate’s Valley Gardens on Saturdays and Sundays between 2 and 17 December.

Read our Christmas market guide here to find out which festive events are happening near you.

Business Breakfast: Harrogate PR agency joins B Corp ethical elite

Are you already thinking of how to reward your employees this Christmas? Why not choose the Harrogate Gift Card?

The Harrogate Gift Card can be spent in over 100 businesses in Harrogate town centre including retail, hospitality and leisure, whilst keeping the spend locked into the local economy.

Complete a corporate bulk order of over £250 and receive 15% discount from November 1 to 15 with the code ‘HGT15’.

Harrogate PR agency Cause UK has achieved the prestigious B Corp certification.

B Corp is a certification awarded for ongoing commitment to meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

Cause UK was established in 2010 by sisters Clair and Ann Challenor-Chadwick, and specialises in supporting organisations that have positive impact. Its clients operate in the arts, charity, social enterprise, and public sector. The team also supports ethical businesses.

Clair said:

“B Corp is a rigorous process that demands Cause UK meets the highest standards of social responsibility and environmental stewardship. So, we’re incredibly proud to meet this milestone.”

B Corporations are accredited by B Lab, a non-profit network that works to transform the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. Its international network of organisations supports a collective vision of an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.

B Corp certification is awarded to businesses that strive to balance purpose and profit, using their operations as a force for good.

Harrogate companies that have already achieved the certification include Harrogate Spring Water and lifestyle brand NEOM Organics.

Clair added:

“In 2024, we aim to represent more businesses in order to afford us to support more good causes. We believe most businesses now take responsibility for people and planet, and we’re keen to work with those who share these values as part of our five-year growth strategy.”

Sponsors lend names to Harrogate Town stands

Harrogate Town unveiled two new stands last night for its League Two clash with Wrexham.

The PIB Insurance stand is brand new and large enough to host a record away crowd, and the new-look Myrings stand now has seating behind the goal in what was previously an all-standing section.

Ross Barnitt, a senior director at PIB, said:

“Back in the 2015 season I was fortunate to witness Town achieve their highest ever league finish to secure play-offs in the National League North. At the same time, PIB was formed with its first two employees.

“In the years that followed, Town have written their own history with impressive promotions to the National League and then the Football League, and PIB have grown to more than 4,000 employees across eight countries.

“Our shared commitment to supporting local communities and shared passion for excellence makes us very proud to partner with Harrogate Town at this exciting time in their history.”

Harrogate estate agent Myrings is a long-time supporter of Harrogate Town. Managing director Gemma Myring said:

“Myrings are extremely proud to unveil the amazing new stand for home supporters. This marks yet another terrific milestone on the Club’s journey into Sky Bet League Two of the Football League along the road to the next promotion. Just in time for their home fixture vs Wrexham too!”

Pannal dental practice stops treating adults on NHS

A Harrogate dental clinic will no longer provide a full NHS service next year because it says it cannot afford to.

Pannal Dental Clinic (PDC) sent letters at the weekend to its patients to let them know of the new arrangements.

The letter, which has been seen by the Stray Ferret, said:

“As of the 1st January 2024, our team will cease to provide NHS care for adults. Instead, we will be able to provide your dental care on a private basis and to aid this transition we have introduced a patient membership plan.”

The change came as a shock to some patients, including Pannal resident Petra Turner.

She told the Stray Ferret:

“A number of Pannal and Burn Bridge residents are now finding that they have to join the PDC dental plan or stay on as a pay-as-you-go (a lot of money) patient in order to stay on their list.”

She added:

“We (a family of four) have been with this practice for 22 years. If the three adults in our family were to join the PDC basic plan, we would have to pay £750 a year. This would include two dental check-ups and two hygienist appointments per person. A very nice hourly rate.”

But Dr Greg Cadman, owner and principal dentist at PDC, said he had no choice but to reduce the NHS contract.

Under a system introduced in 2006, any dental practice working to an NHS contract must fulfil a target of units of dental activity (UDAs) set by the Integrated Care Board (ICB) that gave it the contract.

A check-up is worth one UDA, but a filling is worth three. Confusingly, multiple fillings in one visit still count as three UDAs.

Earlier this year, Parliament’s Health and Social Care Committee called the UDA system “not fit for purpose”.

Pannal Dental Clinic has failed to meet its targets in three of the last four years, and missing them carries a penalty known as a “clawback”, where the ICB can claim back the value of the underachieved units.

As a result, the practice had to pay back a large sum of money.

Dr Cadman said:

“We are not terminating our NHS contract – we are reducing it and prioritising children.

“We lost a couple of associates due to them wanting to work privately, and another went on maternity leave. With staffing levels like that, it became impossible to hit the target.

“There’s no clawback if you fulfil 90% of your UDAs, but we hit 89.7% – just 0.3% off the target – so we were hit with a full clawback of tens of thousands of pounds that had to be paid within just three months.”

He said the problem had been exacerbated by the recruitment crisis in the NHS, which had grown more acute since Brexit and the Covid pandemic. He said:

“There always used to be dentists who would take on NHS work, but now many are finding it too difficult under the current system. We’ve advertised for new NHS dentists in numerous places for six months – without a single applicant. Even dental nurses are hard to find.

“There’s definitely still a place for the NHS – it’s really important, and I don’t want to see it go. But for practices like ours, working within it is very difficult.”

The reduction in PDC’s NHS contract is symptomatic of a national trend. The British Dental Association has said that NHS dentistry is facing a “genuine crisis” of access.

A YouGov survey in March 2023 found that one in five people in the UK (22%) are currently not registered with a dentist, and of these, 37% said this was because they couldn’t find an NHS dentist.

One in 10 (10%) even admitted to attempting their own dental work.

Dutch lifestyle brand takes last empty unit on James Street

The last empty shop unit on James Street in Harrogate has been let to a fast-growing Dutch lifestyle brand.

Rituals will open in early 2024 at 34 James Street, between Hoopers and Hotel Chocolat, in the unit formerly occupied by jewellers Ernest Jones.

The company sells “home and body cosmetics”, which according to its website are “inspired by the wisdom and traditions of ancient cultures”.

The shop unit was marketed by Leeds-based property consultants Central Retail. Director Tom Limbert said:

“Rituals is a high-end, luxurious brand with fabulous products, so will add to the already strong tenant mix on James Street.

“Having also been responsible for the recent transactions of Mint Velvet relocating to the former Joules unit, and Cornish Bakery taking the former Paperchase, we’re delighted to see James Street fully occupied and looking back to its best.”

Rituals was founded in 2000 in Amsterdam and has since grown into a multinational concern. It has more than 900 stores in 33 countries and is still expanding.

It currently has more than 60 stores and concessions in the UK and has plans to open 25 more next year across the UK and Ireland, of which the Harrogate shop will be one of the first.

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Sponsors lend names to Harrogate Town stands

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