Harrogate and Ripon to provide more homes to Afghan refugees

More Afghan refugees are to be housed in Harrogate and Ripon following an urgent request from the Home Office.

North Yorkshire Council has approved the use of eight Ministry of Defence properties in the county — but also flagged up concerns about the pressure on its housing stock.

Six of the new homes are in Catterick and one each is in Harrogate and Ripon.

A council report cited humanitarian concerns as the reason for agreeing to the request and said eight properties “would be manageable in relation to school places, integration support and English language classes”.

But it added:

“Caution is necessary in relation to accommodating more than eight additional households.

“Existing housing pressures in the county need to be considered alongside the fact that North Yorkshire Council is responsible for finding move-on housing for the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy households in the service family accommodation properties should they wish to stay in North Yorkshire.”

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The Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy, which was implemented in April 2021, entitles Afghan citizens who worked for or with the UK in Afghanistan and their partners and children to relocate to the UK.

The report said North Yorkshire had resettled 175 people from 45 Afghanistan households under the scheme since February 2021 and had also received over 1,300 Homes for Ukraine arrivals since spring 2022 , “some of whom are requiring move-on housing in the county following the end of their sponsorship period”.

Rachel Joyce, the council’s assistant chief executive local engagement, said:

“There are specific timelines for this process, however, the Ministry of Defence have identified eight properties in total in Harrogate, Ripon and Catterick Garrison which would provide safe and suitable accommodation for eligible Afghan refugee families.

“Families will be matched to the properties giving them the independence, space and privacy they require. It’s also a chance for them to integrate with the local community and play a part in community life.

“We are unable to reveal the exact addresses of the properties at this stage.”

 

Harrogate school ‘could be judged outstanding’, says Ofsted report

A Harrogate primary school is to be re-inspected by Ofsted after an interim assessment suggested it could be judged ‘outstanding’. 

Oatlands Junior School was rated ‘good’ when Ofsted visited in 2018, and following inspectors’ latest visit in July, the school retained that status.

But in its report, Ofsted said there was “enough evidence of improved performance to suggest that the school could be judged outstanding if we were to carry out a graded (section 5) [i.e. more comprehensive] inspection now”. 

Oatlands is now expected to undergo a graded inspection within the next two years to assess whether it is still ‘good’ or has attained ‘outstanding’ status. 

The report, released today, particularly praises the school’s inclusivity, reporting that leaders and staff “help every pupil, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), to be the very best that they can be.” 

It goes on to praise the school’s “broad and interesting” curriculum, pupils’ behaviour, sense of equality, and respect for difference and diversity.

Photo of four pupils from Oatlands Junior School in Harrogate, jumping in the air.

The headteacher of Oatlands Junior School, Mrs Estelle Scarth, said:  

“The report certainly captures everything about Oatlands Junior School that we are immensely proud of and quite rightly describes all the outstanding evidence that was found throughout a very thorough inspection.

“Our success is firmly based on the dedication and talents of everyone that works in our school, the strong, positive relationships that we have with our parents and carers, and of course, all the amazing children in our care.”  

Oatlands Junior School, along with Western Primary and Harrogate Grammar School, was one of the founding schools of the Red Kite Learning Trust in 2015. This has since grown into a multi-academy trust of 14 schools across North and West Yorkshire. 

Amanda Thornton Jones, Director of Primary Education for Red Kite Learning Trust, said: 

“Ofsted recognised the strong collaborative approach within our Trust and how talent and expertise of staff are developed across all our schools. Oatlands Junior School has a highly trained, dedicated and expert team led by an exceptional headteacher.

“Mrs Scarth’s high aspirations and vision are shared by all within the school community. Oatlands Junior is a highly successful school, providing a rich curriculum which releases potential and creates amazing opportunities for all pupils.”

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Business Breakfast: Harrogate’s Ashville College appoints director of sport

Harrogate’s Ashville College has appointed a new director of sport.

Paul Stansfield, who previously played for Harrogate Town FC and coached the club’s under 18s, will take up the role at the college.

Mr Stansfield spent six years at St Aidan’s Church of England High School, where he was head of year and head of department, and seven years at the town’s St John Fisher Catholic High School, where he was latterly deputy head.

He said:

“I look forward to working with my team to build on Ashville’s strong sporting reputation and excellent facilities.

“Ultimately, my aim is for every pupil in the school to love sport. I was attracted by the variety of sports available at Ashville, from basketball to hockey, cricket to tennis, rugby to swimming; pupils need to first experience many different sports and skills to find their own way, their own passion.”

Harrogate funeral director wins green award

A Harrogate funeral directors has been named green funeral director of the year in a national industry awards.

Full Circle Funerals, which is based on Skipton Road, was recognised for its approach to green funerals, its commitment to being a sustainable business and its wider efforts to improve knowledge about how to achieve net zero funeral care.

Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals.

Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals.

It was recognised at the AGFD Good Funeral Awards, which was held in Solihull.

Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals, said: 

“We are delighted to have been named Green Funeral Director of the Year and are always pleased to support people who want to consider the environment in the choices that they make.

“We also work hard to try to think about how Full Circle impacts the environment and to support other organisations in our local communities who are doing the same.”

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Inaugural Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference proves huge success

Businesses at the Pavilions of Harrogate educated themselves on all things digital at the inaugural Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference today.

The event, which was sponsored by Ison Harrison Solicitors and York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub, saw industry-wide speakers discuss the importance of a digital presence and the need to invest in digital marketing to optimise businesses.

From SEO strategies and emojis to driving digital growth and social media planning, no stone was left unturned.

Digital agencies Next Chapter and Impression Studio both discussed the importance of standing out in a crowded marketplace, embracing modern technology, and developing a clear digital marketing plan for the best results. Ben Foster of the SEO Works talked delegates through the art of getting to the top of an internet search.

Social media manager Rachel Moore, The Glam Hut’s Mia Williamson and Best Kept Secret Clothing’s Fiona Martin all emphasised the importance of social media. Rachel spoke about aiming to master one platform, while Mia and Fiona said small businesses don’t need to spend huge amounts of money on equipment to make good content.

“Personality shining through and consistency are both key”, they added.

Georgie Pogge-von Strandmann, solicitor and branch manager at Ison Harrison Solicitors, said:

“We’re really pleased to be part of the Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference and supporting other businesses in the digital marketing world.”

The Stray Ferret’s Commercial Manager Emma Harris added that in a world consumed by technology, we now more than ever must “embrace digital marketing and all its benefits”.

Lucy Playford, affectionately known as Harrogate Mama, and Chelsea Talbot from Positive Influence Agency gave an in-depth guide into influencer marketing. The pair discussed the positive effects an influencer can have on brands that choose to market through them.

Lauren Cooper and Georgie Harmer from Intandem Communications led a talk on the power of engaging content, while Chloe Byrne from Audience brought the day to a close with an insight into this year’s consumer trends.

Jack Colding from York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub.

Karen Booth, business relationship manager at York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub, added:

“We’re so happy to support other businesses here today and to be part of the first Stray Ferret Digital Marketing Conference.”

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Harrogate hospital ‘crumbly concrete’ to cost £20m to eradicate

Health officials have estimated it will cost £20 million to eradicate “crumbly concrete” from Harrogate District Hospital.

RAAC, which stands for reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete, is a lightweight material that is less durable than traditional concrete and has a life expectancy of just 30 years before it runs the risk of collapse.

The first section of Harrogate District Hospital was built in 1975 during a period when RAAC was used in the construction of public buildings.

A report about the material at the Lancaster Park Road hospital was discussed at a meeting of Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust’s board yesterday at the Crown Plaza hotel.

The report said a full survey of the estate by engineers WSP found 2,500 RAAC panels. It added that remedial works have been completed on 12 “high-risk” panels with some theatres and corridors in the hospital made safe with props.

The report said there will be an annual survey of all RAAC panels and a roof with the concrete will be replaced.  

It said there may also be further propping of panels that are in danger of collapsing.

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To eradicate RAAC from the site, the trust has bid for £20m of funding to NHS England, which includes relocating demolishing and rebuilding a therapy services building.

Whilst there is RAAC present at Harrogate hospital, it is not as prevalent as in other hospitals in Yorkshire such as Airedale in the Bradford district. In May, the government announced it will be completely rebuilt due to RAAC.

Jonathan Coulter, chief executive at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust’s, addressed RAAC in a statement.

He said: 

“There has been a flurry of activity in respect of the management of estate where there is RAAC present. This followed the concerns raised at the end of last month across the education system.

“To be fair, the NHS has been very aware of this issue and risks are being managed, but there is now greater concern and the threshold for risk is being challenged.

“As the board will be aware, we do have some RAAC across the HDH site that we survey regularly, manage, and have a plan for gradual replacement. As part of our capital plans, including our new theatre build, we are reviewing and assessing the potential to tackle this issue more quickly.”

Harrogate Restaurant Week returns to offer discount dining

Restaurants across the Harrogate district will be offering discount deals next month, when Visit Harrogate Restaurant Week returns. 

The week-long event runs from Monday, October 9, to Sunday, October 15, and will see at least 15 participating restaurants and food outlets offer set-price dining deals for £10, £15, £20 and £30. Big names taking part include Bettys, The Ivy, Hotel du Vin and the Clocktower Brasserie at Rudding Park.

This October’s Restaurant Week runs for longer than last year’s inaugural event, and incorporates Sunday, October 15, to capture the weekend visitor footfall and coincide with the Harrogate Music Weekender organised by Harrogate BID. 

The weekend of October 13-15 will see live performances, street entertainers and special offers driving further footfall to Harrogate’s town centre hospitality venues. 

Harrogate BID is supporting the week-long event by providing free parking in the Jubilee Car Park in Harrogate from 4pm daily until it closes. 

The purpose of Restaurant Week, which is organised by Destination Harrogate, is twofold. Pre-fixed prices help diners to plan what to spend in advance, encouraging them to discover new places to eat.

It also offers businesses in the food and hospitality industry an opportunity to raise their profile. Following the first Restaurant Week in February, many participating businesses reported an increase in bookings and in footfall for the week – while also showing interest for a follow-up event later in the year. 

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Helen Suckling, partnership and commercial manager for Destination Harrogate, said:  

“The feedback we received from February’s event was very positive and, in extending the time that diners are given to enjoy Restaurant Week, we’re also extending the opportunity to boost business for our food and hospitality trade at a traditionally quieter time of the year.” 

Customers can take advantage of the lower priced menus and food deals by visiting participating restaurants, cafés and food outlets and quoting the offer. 

Gemma Rio, head of Destination Harrogate, said:  

“Excellent food and drink is one of the Harrogate area’s tourism strengths and, through Restaurant Week, we’re showcasing the diversity of our dining offer. 

“Restaurant Week also supports our commitment to sustainable tourism. In finding new ways to attract visitors and spread footfall across the whole year, we’re offering new opportunities to our local businesses, along with great deals to our visitors and residents alike.”  

Businesses can sign up to the initiative via the Destination Harrogate website.  

For information on menu offers and the dates on which they are available, see the Visit Harrogate website. 

Visit Harrogate is the official tourism website for the Harrogate area of North Yorkshire. It is operated by Destination Harrogate, which is part of North Yorkshire Council.  

Two arrested after police pursuit near Harrogate

Two people have been arrested after a police pursuit near Harrogate.

Officers said they received a call at 2.15am this morning to reports of a quad bike which was travelling at close proximity with a car. The quad had two people on, who were riding without helmets.

North Yorkshire Police deployed a stinger unit to Harewood bridge, which deflated the tyres of the quad and vehicle.

The car was stopped in Harewood and the two occupants, a 20-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, were arrested on suspicion of burglary offences.

The quad continued traveling along the A61 towards Leeds and a West Yorkshire Police unit was also successful at stinging the quad’s tyres. A short time later the quad, which is suspected stolen, was found abandoned by officers and recovered.

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The two people who were arrested remain in custody. Police said enquires are continuing to identify the outstanding suspects and the owner of the quad.

Chief Inspector Alex Langley from North Yorkshire Police said:

“I would like to thank the eagle-eyed member of the public for reporting this information to us.

“If something looks not quite right, then it probably isn’t, especially in the early hours of the morning.

“We take all reports of rural crime extremely seriously and will endeavour to deploy police recourses to the area immediately.”

Section of A59 Kex Gill to be closed for resurfacing in October

A section of the A59 at Kex Gill is set to be closed for five weeks in October as a £500,000 resurfacing scheme is carried out.

North Yorkshire Council will carry out the work on the road to the west of Harrogate between Church Hill and Pace Gate.

The road will be closed from Monday, October 9, for the resurfacing to be carried out. Advance warning signs and a signed diversion will be in place.

Work will take place on a section of the A59 which is next to the council’s £68.8 million Kex Gill re-route project.

Council officers will also be carrying out essential stabilising works to the slope of the existing road as well as drainage repairs, gully-clearing, refreshing lining, replacing cat’s eyes and maintenance of the ground monitoring equipment.

Cllr Keane Duncan, executive councillor for highways and transport at the council, said:

“Keeping our roads in the best condition for the money that we have available is one of the biggest challenges that we face, so the additional government investment is making a huge difference to this year’s highways budget.

“It is allowing us to complete even more works than expected, including this key section of the A59.

“Kex Gill has a history of landslips, and the route has had to be closed a total of 12 times in the past 22 years. We must stabilise the slope near the existing road to avoid any lengthy closures over the next two years whilst the new road is constructed.

“Although there is never a good time to carry out such works, they need to be completed before the inclement winter weather hits.

“We have also timed the other essential works during the five-week period to avoid further closures and have been liaising with neighbouring authorities to ensure an appropriate diversion route has been set up and agreed.”

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The move comes as the council is constructing a new road off the A59 at Kex Gill after a series of landslips.

The Department for Transport is providing grant funding of £56.1 million for the £68.8 million Kex Gill re-alignment project, with the remaining £12.7 million allocated from North Yorkshire Council’s capital reserves.

A new four-kilometre stretch of road will be created, replacing an existing part of the A59 which has been affected by the landslips. 

The re-aligned route will leave the A59 at North Moor Road and re-join the existing road at Blubberhouses. It is due to be completed by autumn 2025.

Hiring: Harrogate’s most luxurious salon wants you!

This story is sponsored by Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing.

The opening of Harrogate’s most luxurious and innovative hair salon is just around the corner, and it’s hiring three hair stylists to join the adventure.

Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing is bringing the town centre the ultimate salon experience and places customer satisfaction at the top of its priority list. From complimentary hand massages and handbag holders to barista-style coffees and iced lemon water, it’s the finishing touches that will make this salon stand-out from the crowd.

The salon will offer all traditional hair services, including cuts and colours, hair-up services, and fashion hair too. Whether it’s a Tik Tok-trending money piece, a butterfly cut or a glamorous bridal up-do, Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing guarantees a sprinkle of luxury with every appointment.

However, it’s bouncy blow-dries that will put founder Charlie Woolley on the map. If you’re dressing to impress for date night, want to look one-million-dollars for a birthday dinner, or just fancy some self-care, Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing will leave you with Hollywood hair and a smile on your face.

If this is the type of salon you’d like to work for, it’s your lucky day! Charlie is recruiting three hair stylists to join her team and takeover the Harrogate hairdressing scene.

To be considered, applicants must have at least two-years salon experience and be at least Level 2 or Level 3-qualified. An established client base is also preferred.

Charlie Woolley told the Stray Ferret:

“I’m so excited about this new business venture – it’s been a long-time coming!

“I think there’s a gap in the market for luxury hairdressing here in Harrogate and Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing is going to be the most luxurious salon in the town.

“Now, I’m just looking for the right team to share this journey with.”

Renovations are well underway at the salon!

Charlie not only wants to deliver the highest-quality service to her clients, but also the best working environment for her staff.

She added:

“I want both my clients and my employees to feel exceptionally special.”

With 20 years of hairdressing experience under her belt, Charlie is looking for driven, bubbly, and creative individuals that are willing to learn and share her strive for success.

Employees will also have plenty of opportunities to further develop their careers and will be given the chance to attend industry courses. These will include specialised Wella courses, as well as advanced cutting and colour courses.

The three lucky applicants will be employed as full-time staff. Staff will, however, be given the chance to work flexible hours around the core days of Tuesday – Saturday.

Charlie is determined to make the salon a “fun and fair” place to work. She added:

“At the end of the day, I’ve got a business to run.

“However, I always treat people how I want to be treated. I’m a very fair person and I want my staff to feel happy in their jobs.”

Staff nights out and networking events will also be a regular occurrence for successful applicants.

Charlie is offering a competitive base salary of £25,000 – £35,000 per annum plus commission.

Those interested can apply for the role on The Stray Ferret jobs page.

The salon will open early November and interviews will be held after application.

Good luck!

To find out more about Charlotte Woolley Hairdressing, visit charlottewoolleyhairdressing.co.uk or follow the salon on Instagram and Facebook.

 

Government rejects plan for 20-metre 5G mast overlooking the Stray

A government inspector has rejected a bid to erect a 20-metre high 5G mast overlooking the Stray in Harrogate.

The inspector acknowledged the mast would boost poor 5G coverage in Harrogate but ruled it would also be “a conspicuous and intrusive feature in the surrounding area”.

CK Hutchison Networks (UK) Ltd, which operates Three Mobile, wanted to build the mast at Granby Park, which is adjacent to the Stray by Skipton Road.

The now-defunct Harrogate Borough Council rejected the plan because of concerns about its visual impact not only on the Stray but also on Skipton Road and Claro Road in February.

CK Hutchison Networks took the decision to the government’s Planning Inspectorate, which adjudicates on disputes.

It argued the mast would not have a detrimental impact on the street scene and the 20 metre height was the “absolute minimum height which can be deployed to bring the benefits of 5G”.

But in a judgement published yesterday, inspector F Harrison said the mast would be “starkly incongruous” and “an intrusive feature in the surrounding area”.

The inspector added:

“I am not satisfied that alternative sites have been properly explored.”

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