TRAVEL ALERT: tree causing long delays and cancellations on the Harrogate to Leeds line

National Rail is warning of disruption up to 7.30pm tonight on the Harrogate to Leeds line due to a fallen tree.

⚠️Due to a tree blocking the railway between Leeds and Harrogate the line is blocked.

🚆Services running through these stations will be cancelled or delayed by up to 60 minuteshttps://t.co/lZlsirHlY9#NorthernUpdates

— NORTHERN 🚆 (@northernassist) October 17, 2022

 

 

Harrogate district MPs silent on emergency statement

The three Conservative MPs whose constituencies include the Harrogate district have declined to comment on today’s emergency statement.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt reversed almost all of Prime Minister Liz Truss’s tax cuts, which were announced in the government’s mini-budget three weeks ago.

Andrew Jones, the Conservative MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, welcomed last month’s growth plan, saying on his Community News website:

“There are a huge number of measures, many focused on our productivity and investment which are the platforms for future growth. So, plenty to be positive about here in Harrogate and Knaresborough.”

Today we asked Mr Jones, along with Julian Smith, who represents Skipton and Ripon, and Nigel Adams, who represents Selby and Ainsty, to comment on today’s announcement by Mr Hunt.

We also asked them whether the Prime Minister should resign, after three Conservative MPs called for her to do so.

Neither Mr Jones nor Mr Smith had replied by the time of publication.

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Mr Smith was critical of the tax cutting agenda in last month’s mini-budget. He said at the time:

“In a statement with many positive enterprise measures this huge tax cut for the very rich at a time of national crisis and real fear and anxiety amongst low income workers and citizens is wrong.”

Maire Crosse, Mr Adams’ senior parliamentary assistant, did reply but only to say:

“Nigel is away today and not contactable. Therefore, he will not be providing a comment.”

New start date for next phase of Otley Road cycle path works to be revealed

A revised start date for works on the next stage of Harrogate’s Otley Road cycle path is set to be revealed this week as parts of the existing route will also be rebuilt following safety concerns.

After securing funding five years ago, North Yorkshire County Council has come under sustained criticism for slow progress on the project which is seen as key to the town’s transport future.

Residents recently slammed the first stage of the cycle path as a “nightmare” and like “crazy golf construction” – and now more remedial works are planned for parts of the route which opened earlier this year.

The council said this will involve the resurfacing of some junctions, including one at Harlow Moor Road which will also be widened after being described as “unsafe” by campaigners.

This comes after a latest safety audit was carried out on the first stage, although a report with the full details has yet to be released by the council.

It said in a statement that proposals to address safety concerns will be revealed this week when it will also make an announcement on when stage two will begin.

However, this new start date could still be several months away as a consultation on the final designs is expected first.

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Previously, the council said the stage two works would start in May or June this year, and then after further setbacks it gave a more vague target of autumn.

On the stage one works, it has now said:

“A number of remedial works are already complete or programmed to be complete in the coming months.

“Therefore, we will carry out the remaining remedial work such as resurfacing at the junctions following this.

“Widening of the route at Harlow Moor Road junction will be complete as soon as necessary third land becomes available.”

A total of £1.6 million has so far been spent on design, construction and utility costs for the project.

This is made up of £1.04 million on stage one and £559,182 on stage two for which a start date will soon be revealed.

Call for Harrogate district to be connected to West Yorkshire mass transit system

A senior Harrogate councillor has called on the government to consider connecting the district with West Yorkshire’s proposed mass transit system.

Cllr Graham Swift, deputy leader of Harrogate Borough Council, said in a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport that the district should be considered as part of the £2 billion plans because of its “strong linkages” with Leeds and other parts of the neighbouring county.

He also said improved connections would compliment the £11.9 million Harrogate Station Gateway project, which is centred around the town’s train station, with cash coming from the government’s Transforming Cities Fund.

The Conservative councillor for Harrogate Duchy said: 

“We welcome the commitment to build a mass transit system for Leeds and West Yorkshire and think there could be strong linkages to improve connectivity between West Yorkshire and Harrogate/North Yorkshire.

“Integration of the mass transit system with the transport system in Harrogate would also further build on the excellent linkages being designed as part of the Transforming Cities Fund proposals.”

The mass transit system has been in the planning stages for years, and upgrades are proposed for routes which connect Leeds, Huddersfield, Wakefield, Halifax and Bradford, but not Harrogate which historically was part of the West Riding of Yorkshire.

It is not known exactly what type of transport will run across the route yet, with the likes of tram trains and electric buses both under consideration.

It has also been suggested that driverless vehicles could be incorporated into the project, which is due to be completed by 2040.

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Cllr Swift, who is also cabinet member for resources, enterprise and economic development, highlighted opportunities for the York-Harrogate-Leeds rail line where he expressed disappointment over recent cuts to morning services from operator Northern Rail.

He also signalled his support for the long called for electrification of the rail line as he warned that Harrogate’s “constrained” transport network was one of the main barriers preventing the growth of higher paid jobs.

Cllr Swift added that other proposals to improve signalling between Harrogate and York were of particular importance given the huge housing plans for a new settlement of between 3,000 and 4,000 homes centred around Cattal train station.

He said the village to be named Maltkiln will provide “a fantastic opportunity for further investment on the line and a boost to patronage levels”.

Harrogate Borough Council has also described the development as a place “where people are not dependent on a car,” adding that it will have “safe and attractive walking and cycling routes which connect people, places and facilities, including nearby villages; while bus and train links enable longer journeys”.

A latest consultation on the housing plans is currently underway and residents have until 14 November to comment online here.

Harrogate business chief: government’s economic credentials ‘in tatters’

The chief executive of Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce has said the government’s economic credentials are in tatters after today’s emergency statement.

David Simister cautiously welcomed last month’s mini-budget for containing measures to stimulate growth.

He said at the time scrapping the rise in national insurance and reversing the increase in corporation tax was “good news for businesses large and small”.

But Mr Simister was less complimentary about today’s statement by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, which reversed almost all tax cuts besides national insurance.

Mr Simister said:

“This is a massive U-turn, and the government’s economic credentials are in tatters.

“In the Kwarteng mini-budget there were some real positives for business, cutting corporation tax, reducing national insurance, and reforming off-payroll (IR35) rules. Only the NI reduction has stayed.

“If Mrs Truss goes, and I really can’t see her staying the course, I wonder if there will be a third mini budget in as many months?”

The chamber, which was founded in 1896, supports local businesses and lobbies on their behalf.

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Pannal Ash residents call for 20mph zone for four schools

Residents in the Pannal Ash area are calling for a 20mph zone to be introduced around four Harrogate schools.

The petition calls for the speed limit, plus safe crossing points and signage, around Rossett Acre Primary School, Rossett School, Harrogate Grammar School and Ashville College.

Ruth Lily and Jenny Marks set up the petition amid concern that more houses in the Pannal Ash area would lead to increased traffic and safety issues for children attending the schools.

The area is earmarked for up to 4,000 new homes as part of housebuilding in the west of Harrogate.

The residents said in a statement:

“We have worked with schools and local people to develop a plan for our area designed to make our streets safe and useable for everyone. 

“Enabling more journeys without cars would also increase people’s health, improve air quality, reduce noise pollution and decrease carbon emissions.”

The petition also calls for North Yorkshire County Council to introduce speed bumps in the area, plus improved cycling provision.

The move comes as residents have called for 20mph zones elsewhere in Harrogate.

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Cllr Paul Haslam, who represents Old Bilton on Harrogate Borough Council, raised the issue with Zoe Metcalfe, the North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner earlier this month.

Speaking at a meeting of Harrogate Borough Council’s overview and scrutiny committee, Cllr Haslam asked Ms Metcalfe:

“In my area, Bilton and Woodfield, I would say the majority of residents want the whole area to be 20mph. At what stage will police enforce this?”

Campaigners across the country are calling for a speed limit of 20mph to be normal on residential streets and in town and village centres as part of the 20’s Plenty initiative.

You can read more on the petition for a 20mph zone in the Pannal Ash area here.

Bay Horse at Goldsborough appoints new manager and head chef

The 17th century Bay Horse Inn at Goldsborough has appointed a new manager and head chef and revamped its food offering.

Clare Oglesby and her husband Mark, who own nearby Goldsborough Hall, took on the village pub in November 2019.

The pub, near Knaresborough, was fully refurbished but then had to close due to covid.

Ms Oglesby said:

“After being open/shut/open for the last couple of years with the covid times, we finally have the right team in place to drive the pub forward.”

The inn will continue to provide traditional home-cooked food but Ms Oglesby said visitors would notice a difference in terms of quality and presentation with the new team in charge.

Marius Salaru, who was previously deputy general manager at Goldsborough Hall for three years, has taken over as manager.

Eric Mucha, whose previous experience includes running the kitchens at Goldsborough Hall, has been appointed head chef. Originally from Krakow, Mr Mucha has been a chef in the UK for over 10 years and has cooked to a 3AA rosette level.

Mr Salaru said:

“We are thrilled to have Eric as our executive chef. He brings a wealth of experience from his fine dining background, which is reflected in the new seasonal menu and daily specials.

“The pub is cosy with a real fire, traditional oak beams, and is great for families and locals. It’s got dog-friendly areas as well. Having an amazing chef will elevate our offering, taking it to the next level while still being affordable.”

The menu will change seasonally, using ingredients and produce from Goldsborough Hall’s kitchen garden.

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Mr Mucha said:

“I am so excited to be working at The Bay Horse Inn and plan to incorporate as much local produce as I can to my dishes.”

Recent specials include pan-fried scallops, venison steak and chocolate delice as well as a new vegan menu.

The venison steak dish

The Bay Horse Inn, which opens daily, dates back to the early 17th century.

It is named after the original Bay Horse, the Byerley Turk, the eldest of three stallions that make up all thoroughbreds today, which was buried in the grounds of next door Goldsborough Hall, in 1706.

 

 

It’s official: Independent guide selects Myrings as among UK’s best estate agents

This article is sponsored by Myrings.

How do you choose the right estate agent for your property?

Selling your home is one of the biggest decisions you will make – and whatever your reasons for doing so, you want to be sure it’s in the best possible hands.

Equally, if you have a property to rent out, you need to be confident your agent will work with you to find the right tenant and get the best price for your investment.

When you start looking for an agent, chances are you’ll be seeking a firm that’s established and reliable. Its fees will be a consideration and the way it responds to your initial enquiry will also play a part in your choice.

But even then, can you be confident the estate agent will deliver the best service and get the results you need?

Best Estate Agent Guide

Luckily, there are ways to make your choice based on independent research. One of these is the Best Estate Agent Guide – which now features Harrogate estate agency Myrings.

The guide lists the top agents across the country and is designed to be an independent resource for sellers and landlords to find the best sales and lettings agencies in their area.

Director Gemma Myring said:

“We are delighted to have been included in the Best Estate Agent Guide 2023. Agents cannot enter or pay for this award – the assessment is industry-wide and only those that meet the very highest standards are included. We are thrilled to have been recognised as among the best in the country.”

Myrings is a family-led firm with a wealth of experience in the property market.

From all its team members living in the Harrogate district to supporting local sports teams, including Harrogate Town, Myrings is invested in the community, and has also recently launched a new relationship supporting Martin House Children’s Hospice.

Its directors and staff are on hand to guide you through the process of selling or letting your home and ensure you achieve your goals, whether that’s achieving the best price, delivering in a quick time frame, or finding the perfect new home for your family.

To find out more, visit the Myrings website. You can call the sales department on 01423 566400, or contact the lettings team on 01423  569007.

Ofsted praise for Harrogate training centre’s new salon-based approach

A Harrogate training centre for people in the hair and beauty industry has received praise from Ofsted in its latest inspection.

Rating Intuitions Ltd ‘good’, inspectors said the “high-quality training” was delivered by staff who have “care and passion”.

The business has recently moved to a new model of delivering training, with most of its lessons delivered one-to-one or in small groups in the salons where apprentices are training.

Ofsted inspectors said:

“Apprentices studying the level two hair professional standard, who are new to the profession, quickly develop their understanding of the high standards of professional behaviours expected in the salons in which they work.

“They behave professionally, and are mature, polite, courteous and respectful to other staff, educators and clients.

“Educators encourage learners and apprentices to take pride in their work, and this is evident in learners’ well-presented portfolios. They are effective role models and have a wide range of industry experience, which inspires learners and apprentices.

“Educators ensure that their appearance reflects professional industry standards, and this reinforces the expectation of apprentices to adhere to the expected standards of dress code in their salons.”

Inspectors said trainees were quick to improve their skills and were pleased with what they achieved even at an early stage of their training.

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However, they recommended staff could do more to develop their other skills, such as by correcting spelling in all written work and giving more comprehensive careers guidance.

The report added:

“Targets set by educators following frequent and comprehensive reviews of work are focused, and apprentices are clear about the progress that they are making.

“Educators clearly identify strengths and areas for improvement, and apprentices know what they need to do next. They share the information with employers in comprehensive reports.

“Apprentices are supported well by their employers, which contributes to the good progress that they make.”

Now based in Wizu Workspace at Royal House on Station Parade, Intuitions was founded almost 30 years ago. It has been run by Michelle Oliver since 2000 and has grown significantly during that time.

Intuitions Ltd is now based at Wizu Workspace on Station ParadeIntuitions Ltd has a new home on Station Parade, but delivers most of its training in salons.

Following the challenges of covid, Ms Oliver told the Stray Ferret the new model of delivering training has been well-received.

“We’re enjoying delivering the new model. It’s nice to be able to go into a business and see the learners using their skills in a real setting.

“That’s what we’re here for – to create the hairdresser for the salons. That’s the beauty of apprenticeships: they’re in the workplace, earning money – not much, but it could be £200 a week, which is a lot when you’ve just left school.

“They’re seeing professional people working alongside them and learning from them all the time.”

Ms Oliver said her own experience of working in a salon while training showed her the value of learning how to behave in a workplace and how to engage with clients.

She said she hoped the supportive comments from Ofsted and the professional standards on show from the learners might encourage more people, as well as local high schools, to do more to promote apprenticeships as a potential career path for their students.

Business Breakfast: Ripon BID to hold its first annual review

Business Breakfast is sponsored by Harrogate law firm Truth Legal. 

Ripon BID is to hold its first Annual Review tonight.

BID chairman Richard Compton of Newby Hall & Gardens, will welcome businesses and give an introduction to the BID, its aims and objectives.

It will be followed by a short presentation by the BID Team on the achievements of the first year of operations and a brief overview of the plans for next year.

The floor will then be opened up to questions. The event is from 6pm-8pm at the Claro Lounge.

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Cloud Nine CEO wins award

The CEO of Harrogate based hair and beauty brand, Cloud Nine, has been named as The Most Ambitious Business Leader of 2022 in awards run by LDC, the private equity arm of the Lloyds Banking Group.

The programme celebrates the inspiring leaders behind some of the UK’s most successful and fast-growing medium-sized firms.

Established in 2009 Cloud Nine, at Hornbeam Park, has gone from strength to strength with its turnover now standing at £36m.

The judges commended Martin Rae for his innovative and sustainable approach to business and his ambition to build the biggest electrical haircare brand in the world.

Martin Rae said:

“To be named as the Most Ambitious Business Leader of 2022 is a huge honour. It is also recognition of the efforts of the full team of people at Cloud Nine. It might be my name on the list, but it is not just me who has achieved such success.

“We are a family business and I like to think of the wider team as one big family that operates successfully due to the culture we have created. Long may that continue in the future.

“I would also like to acknowledge the support of our suppliers and customers – without whom we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Martin Rae, CEO Could Nine with his award