Green Shoots: Why Harrogate should be at the vanguard of tackling climate change

Did you know that Harrogate played a key role in the major IPCC “code red for humanity” climate change report that was published last week? The document was discussed around the globe and warned of climate catastrophe unless we act now.

Renowned climate scientist Piers Forster has lived in Harrogate since 2005 and was one of the main authors of the report. He’s a director of the Priestley International Centre for Climate and Professor of Physical Climate Change at the University of Leeds.

The report was a global effort and each line had to be painstakingly signed off by all 195 countries that are part of the IPCC.

Much of this was done by Prof Forster from his kitchen in Harrogate.

He said:

“That bit was quite tiring. There were 3am calls to talk to places like China and Brazil. It was bizarre.”

Extreme weather events

As we go about our everyday lives in the Harrogate district it might feel like we are insulated from the most frightening consequences of climate change like wildfires in Australia or landslides in China.

But Prof Forster warns that extreme weather events, such as the January floods in Boroughbridge, will become much more common unless we take immediate action.

Flooding in Boroughbridge. January 2021.

He said:

“This country gets off gets off quite lightly from the effects of climate change but we are absolutely beginning to see changes. We’re warmed by the gulf stream here a lot, but it might collapse. That will have a very big effect on our weather.”

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Consumption lifestyle

Harrogate is one of the most affluent towns in the UK and Harrogatonians have a stereotype for enjoying an expensive way of life.

So is our consumption-based capitalist lifestyle part of the problem?

A web tool created by researchers at the University of Leeds suggests it is.

It looks at things like transport use, energy consumption and flights taken and estimates the average carbon footprint of a person living in a particular postcode, grading it from A+ to F-.

Harrogate fares badly with Duchy getting the lowest score of F-, meaning its residents are in the 1% of people across the UK with the biggest carbon footprint.

Credit – the University of Leeds

Prof Forster says:

“On a lot of categories we do a lot worse in our town, particularly in the Duchy. It’s very nice of course, but we’re one of the worst in the country for getting on aeroplanes.

“We also drive a car that’s too big, have a home that’s too big and we heat by gas. It’s up to us to begin to make the changes”.

Planning paradox

Prof Forster describes both Harrogate Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council‘s green credentials as “certainly not terrible” but thinks they are hamstrung by a planning system that does not work in the best interests of the environment.

He points to the paradox of NYCC and HBC promoting active travel schemes in the town centre, whilst vast housing developments are approved on the outskirts of town where residents have no choice but to use a car.

He said:

“They absolutely do want to get to net zero. We all have to get there, but I do think the biggest issue is they dont have authority, investment or power to really make the big changes they want to make.

“The biggest issue is with planning. The way the system works and you do not necessarily get the best outcome for the environment.”

Harrogate Spring Water

One planning application that captured the imagination of the town was Harrogate Spring Water’s controversial advance on Rotary Wood to expand its bottling plant.

In the days leading up the planning committee, Prof Forster intervened to produce his own research paper that said the water company vastly underestimated the number of replacement trees needed to achieve carbon parity with the current woodland.

He believes the refusal was the kind of local victory that needs to be replicated across the country if we are to turn a corner on climate change.

“If you don’t like something, it’s your opportunity to get involved like i did with the spring water application. It was an impressive decision by the council’s planning committee because they went against the norms. There needs to be more and the council needs to be empowered to make these decisions”.

Changes in our community

A key message of the report is catastrophe can be averted if the world acts fast. Prof Forster hopes discussions around the climate in Harrogate can be less divisive, as seen with the Beech Grove Low Traffic Neighbourhood debate.

He said:

“It’s sad as often the first reaction is eurgh!

“We need to learn by doing. We can’t just have endless consultation and reports. We have to try and get on and make changes. 

“This big international report has to be translated into changes we want to see in our community.

“We have to try and get on and make changes that works to improve our town, job prospects whilst saving the world.”

Andrew Jones MP branded ‘hypocrite’ and ‘out of touch’ over foodbank picture

Harrogate & Knaresborough Conservative MP Andrew Jones has been branded a “hypocrite” and “out of touch” by the local Green party after he posed for a picture to promote Harrogate District Foodbank earlier this week.

Mr Jones posted an article on his website Community News alongside two of his caseworkers, Stephen Culpin and the Harrogate Borough Council councillor Matt Scott, that said the pair would be attending sessions of Harrogate Foodbank to offer “advice and support”.

In the article, Mr Jones is quoted as saying:

“It’s important that we tackle the long-term underlying problems which cause people to visit Foodbanks in the first place.”

However, Harrogate & District Green Party member Arnold Warneken, who is a former HBC councillor and stood to become a Bilton county councillor earlier this year, told the Stray Ferret that he believes Mr Jones has contributed to the need for foodbanks through his voting record since he became an MP in 2010.

On 53 occasions Mr Jones has voted to cut spending on welfare benefits. He has also consistently voted against paying higher benefits for those unable to work due to illness or disability. He voted in favour of the so-called “bedroom tax” 16 times.

Mr Warneken said:

“If you look at his voting record on benefits it’s disgraceful.

The Conservatives should put policies in place to protect people, but they don’t. There is hypocrisy there.

“I think Andrew Jones is out of touch, hypocritical and has the power to make change but he’s ineffective.”

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Mr Warneken set up Ainsty Community Larder from his farm where he distributes food and medicine to those in need.

He accused the MP of “electioneering and getting brownie points” by posing for the “staged” picture.

“If he was quietly doing it in the background I’d give him a pat on the back.

“But he’s smiling, whats he smiling for? He is saying, ‘Arent we wonderful, a problem we created we are getting credit for solving.

“Humility is something people should adopt.”

The Stray Ferret asked Mr Jones to respond to Mr Warneken’s comments but we did not receive a response.

On Community News, he said:

“Over the years my casework team have helped hundreds steer the maze which is the benefits system to get cash which is available to them.”

Harrogate electronics firm receives £600,000 Northern Powerhouse loan

A Harrogate firm that refurbishes computer equipment has received a government-backed loan worth £600,000 from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

Intelligent Servers Ltd, which is based at Hornbeam Park and employs 50 people, says the loan will help the company increase its stock, expand its warehouse and employ 23 more staff members.

Since the company was founded in 2011 it has delivered refurbished products to over 3,000 customers including Manchester United FC.

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The loan was provided through FW Capital Debt Finance.

Its assistant investment executive Alex Brown said:

“We are delighted to back Intelligent Servers, a business with a great track record of growth and a proven management team.

“Our investment will assist Intelligent Servers in achieving their growth strategy through maintaining higher stock levels and improving purchasing power. Best of all, this growth strategy will support significant job creation.”

Harrogate Town to return to action after covid outbreak

Harrogate Town are set to return to action today after a covid outbreak set back the start of the club’s League Two campaign.

Town will face Barrow at the EnviroVent Stadium, two weeks since the club last played against Rochdale in their opening game.

The outbreak forced the club to postpone two EFL fixtures and forfeit a Carabao Cup tie against Rochdale.

Five players tested positive and others had to self-isolate as a result of the outbreak.

Manager Simon Weaver said on Thursday that the postponed fixtures were frustrating, but added that the players were now through the worst of it.

“Initially it was a feeling of frustrating and deflation really. We’d come off the back of a really good opening day win and the circumstances of a last minute winner from Warren as well. It was a blow but it’s not insurmountable.

“Covid is part of our everyday life now so people getting it wasn’t a total surprise and I think we’ve reacted strongly to it. The players have rested up and come through the worse of it now and we’re looking forward to a couple days training and a big game.”

Not using covid as an excuse

Town returned to training on Thursday morning following the enforced break, which saw games against Crawley and Leyton Orient rearranged.

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Weaver said the players would have two sessions ahead of Barrow, but would not use covid as an excuse for the short preparation.

He said:

“I think we don’t use covid as an excuse, no matter what.

“We’re firmly focused on the game and we’ve got that excitement in our stomach like how it was on the opening day.

“The crowd were exhilarating on that day and really lifted us all so we’re really looking forward to getting back home and that’s the lucky thing about it, the first game back is at home – a place we’ve got very good recent memories of.”

Simon Weaver after the win against Rochdale on the opening game of the season. Picture: Matt Kirkham, Harrogate Town.

Simon Weaver after the win against Rochdale on the opening game of the season. Picture: Matt Kirkham, Harrogate Town.

Weaver expects a physical game

Both Barrow and Harrogate Town were promoted from the National League in 2019/20, but Town got the upper hand over the Cumbrian side last season.

Jack Muldoon scored both goals in two 1-0 wins over Barrow in both clubs inaugural season in the EFL.

Barrow will be without striker Dimitri Sea, Jamie Devitt, midfielder Mike Jones and Tom Beadling for today’s clash.

Sea will remain on the sidelines as Barrow follow concussion protocols and Devitt has a thigh injury.

Jones is short of fitness and Beadling faces a long period out due to a partial tear to his crucial ligament.

Town manager Weaver said he expects Barrow to be more physical this season.

He said:

“They’re up for it and I think a bit more physical this season, and under Mark Cooper they have a lot of experience.

“But, we also think we have a lot in our ranks which can allow us to have a real good go at them and play our way. It’ll be great to have the fans behind us like against Rochdale and to win would be great, especially in the circumstances.”

Harrogate MP welcomes new Christmas market as local traders move on

Andrew Jones MP has welcomed the proposal of a new Christmas market but some disappointed local traders have already moved on.

Market Place Europe has entered into formal talks with Harrogate Borough Council about holding its own version of a Christmas market.

Talks are in the early stages but the plan is to hold a 45 stall event from December 3 to 12. There is no word yet on where it will be held but it will be in the town centre.

There will be a mixture of European stall holders as well as some local traders.

However, it’s unclear just how many of the 170 booked in with the former organisers will be able to get involved with the new organisers.

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Bridget Bailey, founder of Bags and Glad Rags, told the Stray Ferret:

“I have been a trader at the Harrogate Christmas Market since it started so I find it very sad that such a successful event has been destroyed.

“We have been messed about so could not wait for this to be sorted. So I am already committed to other things around that time.”

Howard Heaton, managing director of Westmorland Sheepskins, also said:

“This has been quite frustrating to watch. Harrogate is a destination so we need to build on that.

“But from what I have seen of the new Christmas market I am not sure if it will draw in the same crowds, it’s a much smaller event.”

Steven Green, co-founder of Harrogate Tipple, added:

“I think it’s laughable really to have 45 stalls. With European traders as well I cannot see how the locals will get much of a look in.

“Harrogate Tipple always did well at the Christmas market in Harrogate but we are now going to York instead.”

What does Andrew Jones MP make of the new plans?

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Andrew Jones has released a statement for the first time about Harrogate Christmas Market since the council refused a licence for Montpellier Hill.

Mr Jones welcomed the news:

“I have read that the usual organisers have announced that they are not going to be seeking approval for a new event plan on Montpellier Hill which addresses the issues raised.

“Retailers contacting me simply want to make sure there is a safe and quality Christmas market in Harrogate. They are not too interested in the wrangling over the exact location.

“That is why, putting the past in the past, I am pleased that a commitment remains from the council to pick up the problem and sort it by speaking to other Christmas market organisers.

“Time though is marching on. I am pleased that contingencies are in place and moving forward at pace.”

Harrogate fire crew come to aid of TV presenter Steph McGovern

Crew at Harrogate Fire Station came to the aid of TV presenter Steph McGovern this morning to cut off a ring from her swollen finger.

The host of Steph’s Packed Lunch tweeted that she had trapped her ring finger in a door which led to a painful-looking injury.

After the ring was cut free she thanked crew at the station for their help.

McGovern lives in Harrogate and filmed her Channel 4 show from her house during last year’s covid lockdown.

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Eventful morning…..started with trip to @FireHarrogate to get a ring cut off swollen finger I’d trapped in door……thanks so much to Matt @TurnerTurner11, Lisa @Arcticwolf31, Dave + James for sorting it out!

Straight after had to take my daughter for first ever day at nursery pic.twitter.com/6a1ZdtEP4i

— Steph McGovern (@StephLunch) August 20, 2021

Ripon and Nidderdale are ready to support Afghan refugees

Ripon City of Sanctuary and Nidderdale Community Welcome (NCW) have called on the government to ‘open doors wider’ to people fleeing Afghanistan.

The refugee resettlement groups welcome news that the UK is committed to resettle up to 20,000 men, women and children.

However, they want to ensure that the selection criteria is not limited exclusively to those associated with Western organisations  – including the military and diplomatic missions.

The groups believe the programme should also be open to women and ethnic minorities who have already been targeted by the Taliban.

They are also concerned about the possible impact on the current resettlement programme for refugees from war-torn Syria, that has been in place since 2016.

The tranquility of Nidderdale – a far cry from the troubles that the Afghan people are facing

Nicola David, chair of Ripon City of Sanctuary, told the Stray Ferret:

“We are concerned that the government’s new Afghan programme will probably slam the doors on further Syrian resettlement.”

Ripon City of Sanctuary, has been fundraising since April, anticipating that it would be bringing another Syrian family to the city.

It has raised 85 per cent of the money needed and a has a house in prospective.

Ms. David, pointed out:

“We have been trying to build a little Syrian community here.”

Afghan interpreter families are already being supported locally, as part of the government’s Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP)

Ms. David, added:

“Some Afghan interpreter families are currently being assisted to resettle in the UK, and a very small number arrived in the Harrogate district last week.”

In June, the Stray Ferret reported that Harrogate Borough Council was set to provide homes for four of the families.

In 2015, former prime minister David Cameron announced the programme for Re-settlement of Syrian refugees in the UK.

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With homes already found for some in the Harrogate and Ripon areas, NCW hopes to provide similar support for a family in the Dales by Christmas.

Peter Wright,  who heads the Nidderdale group, said:

“The first refugees from Afghanistan are starting to arrive in the area. Maybe we will get a family in Nidderdale, we don’t know at this point, but we should all do as much as possible to support those fleeing for their lives.”

Live: Harrogate district traffic and travel

Good morning. It’s Leah with you on this Friday morning, it’s is nearly the weekend! The roads have been a little quieter in the last few weeks but make sure to let me know if anything slows you down.

This blog, brought to you by the HACS Group, brings you live travel updates until 9am.

Were you stuck in a jam? Are there some new roadworks on your route? Let’s help everyone have a smoother journey by letting me know so I can add it to the blog.

Please give me a call on 01423 276197 or join our Facebook group ‘Harrogate district traffic and travel’ to give any updates.

9am – Full Update 

That is it from me this morning, I will be back with you on Monday from 06.30. Have a lovely weekend.

Roads

The roads are starting to get busier this morning. Make sure to keep checking in as the morning goes on.

Traffic is building in these areas:

Temporary traffic lights are in place here:

Trains

Buses

8.30am – Full Update 

Roads

The roads are starting to get busier this morning. Make sure to keep checking in as the morning goes on.

Traffic is building in these areas:

Temporary traffic lights are in place here:

Trains

Buses

8am – Full Update 

Roads

The roads are starting to get busier this morning. Make sure to keep checking in as the morning goes on.

Traffic is building in these areas:

Temporary traffic lights are in place here:

Trains

Buses

7:30am – Full Update 

Roads

The roads are looking quiet so far this morning. Make sure to keep checking in as the morning goes on.

Temporary traffic lights are in place here:

Trains

Buses

 

7am – Full Update 

Roads

The roads are looking quiet so far this morning. Make sure to keep checking in as the morning goes on.

Temporary traffic lights are in place here:

Trains

Buses

 

6.30am – Full Update 

Roads

The roads are looking quiet so far this morning. Make sure to keep checking in as the morning goes on.

Temporary traffic lights are in place here:

Trains

Buses

 

Beech Grove closure: County council receives 600-signature petition

North Yorkshire County Council officials are to investigate a low traffic neighbourhood scheme on Beech Grove after a 600-signature petition was handed in to the authority.

Residents have raised concern that the closure to through traffic on the road and Lancaster Road is inconvenient, pushes traffic elsewhere and that very little notice was given over the decision.

A consultation on the scheme closed this past weekend, but it will remain in place as a trial until August 2022.

However, the county council is now set to investigate and debate the matter after 655 people signed a petition calling for the scheme to be scrapped.

In response, the county council said:

“The matter has been referred to the council’s highways service for investigation. They will contact the petitioner directly. 

“As over 500 signatures have been received, the petitioner is also able under the council petition scheme to attend a meeting of the Harrogate and Knaresborough Area Constituency Committee and have the matter debated.”

Anna McIntee, a Harrogate resident and co-founder of the Harrogate Residents’ Association, launched the petition after she believed the scheme only pushed traffic elsewhere in the town.

She told the Stray Ferret:

“The changes to Beech Grove and Lancaster Road affect the day to day lives of so many residents and locals, who use this road and surrounding the area. Many people rely on their cars.

“We need to see the data that cycling has increased since the trial LTN introduction in February of this year.

“Grant Shapps said himself ‘’I’ve set out tough new conditions to ensure these schemes are properly consulted on and that evidence of this is shown before schemes are rolled out. Plus monitoring reports are submitted after the schemes open to clearly show how they have been modified based on local feedback.’’.

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However, Cllr Don Mackenzie, executive county councillor for access, said previously that the scheme had been successful in freeing up road space for up for cyclists and pedestrians.

He added that there was a “good chance” of the low traffic neighbourhood becoming permanent.

Cllr Mackenzie said:

“Its been successful. There’s been views in both directions but most residents have accepted it as a positive.

“I see it continuing after 18 months. It’s a part of town where we are making changes to sustainable travel. I can see the Low Traffic Neighbourhood remaining in place formally.”

Jeff Stelling to march from Harrogate Town in aid of prostate cancer

Well-known Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling is set to march from Harrogate to Leeds in aid of Prostate Cancer UK this month.

Jeff, who is known for anchoring Sky’s Soccer Saturday coverage, has raised more than £1 million for the men’s health charity and has taken part in four marches since 2016.

This year, he is set to walk from Harrogate Town’s EnvioVent Stadium to Elland Road in Leeds via Kirk Deighton Rangers and Leeds Rhinos.

The stop at Kirk Deighton will be poignant as the club was home to Yorkshireman Lloyd Pinder, who sadly died of the disease last year after striking up a firm friendship with Stelling.

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The walk, which is taking place on August 31, will be one of four walking marathons he takes part in.

Jeff said:

“Covid has had a horrific impact on lives across the UK, but prostate cancer has not gone away. In fact it’s now more important than ever that we support men and their loved ones.

“One in eight men in the UK will get prostate cancer in their lifetime. I deal in stats, but that one still shocks me. This is our dads, partners, brothers, grandads, uncles and friends.

“That’s why I wear the Prostate Cancer UK ‘Man of Men’ badge. That’s why we’ve marched across the UK three times, helping raise more than £1 million for crucial research to beat prostate cancer.”

Jeff has invited 400 football fans to take part in his walking marathons, including the walk to Elland Road, to raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK.

For more information on how to sign up, visit prostatecanceruk.org/jeffsmarch.