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Feb

Last Updated: 18/02/2024

Heritage groups back plans to convert Harrogate Debenhams

by John Plummer

| 19 Feb, 2024

Visual of the new plan for Harrogate's former Debenhams.

Harrogate Civic Society and Historic England have supported plans to convert the former Harrogate Debenhams building into shops and 34 flats.

Debenhams closed on Parliament Street in 2021 after the company went into administration.

Wetherby developer Stirling Prescient initially applied to demolish the building and build 50 flats but withdrew these plans in May 2022 after widespread opposition.

But Harrogate Civic Society and the non-departmental public body Historic England, who were among those objecting, have backed latest proposals submitted to North Yorkshire Council in November last year.

The new application is to convert the first floor into 34 flats and use the ground floor and basement as a 'flexible commercial space' or a 'drinking establishment'.

It also proposes erecting a rooftop extension, the removal and replacement of canopies, shopfronts and the slate roof, and re-cladding the part of the building with a 1960s facade. The plans also include a secure cycle store and seven car parking spaces.

Stirling Prescient has said the development would "provide a high quality and vibrant new residential development" as well as "a new focal point along Parliament Street".

The civic society submission to council as part of the consultation process says it is pleased demolition is no longer being proposed, adding:

"We are content with the currently proposed uses of the building and are keen to see it returned to beneficial use and retain its positive place in the conservation area

"Loss of the existing façade of the 1960s building next to the Westminster Arcade will not be mourned, likewise the ugly canopy that does the conservation area no favours.

"Overall, we are very pleased to see this proposal for re-use of the building and look forward to it making a positive contribution to the conservation area and the vitality of the town."

Suzanne Lilley, inspector of historic buildings and areas at Historic England, said in its consultation submission the site at 22-30 Parliament Street "forms part of an iconic commercial street-scene", adding:

"The proposals have benefited from pre-application engagement with Historic England and we now welcome the approach taken by the applicant.

"There is an exciting opportunity here for a positive restoration and conversion scheme which enables these buildings to be appreciated and enjoyed by the public."

You can view details of the application on North Yorkshire Council’s planning portal here, entering the reference number ZC23/03273/FULMAJ.

Plan to demolish Harrogate Debenhams withdrawn

Plans submitted to convert Harrogate Debenhams into 34 flats

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Heritage groups back plans to convert Harrogate Debenhams

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