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19
Jan 2022
Heritage groups say 'no justification' for Harrogate Debenhams demolition
Two influential national heritage groups have issued strong objections to plans to demolish the former Debenhams building on Parliament Street in Harrogate.
Wetherby-based property company Stirling Prescient is behind a proposal to demolish three buildings and replace them with 50 high-end apartments along with two commercial units.
The site has been home to different retailers on Parliament Street for over a century. Before Debenhams, it housed the Buckley’s and Busby’s stores.
But in documents submitted to the council, the developer said the buildings need to be demolished as their size means they are no longer viable for retail.
'Historic and architectural value'
Campaign group and charity Save Britain's Heritage submitted an objection to the plans this week, saying the developer had failed to provide "clear or adequate justification" for demolishing the 1902 and 1920 era buildings.
Another building next to Westminster Arcade that was added in the 1960s is also set for demolition.
The group says the two older buildings have "considerable historic and architectural value" and "add greatly" to the character and significance of Parliament Street.
It adds:
Read more:
- Plans submitted to demolish former Harrogate Debenhams
What next for Debenhams building in Harrogate?
In December, the public body Historic England also submitted an objection to the plans.
Whilst welcoming the regeneration of the site, it said there should be a "sensitive conversion" of the two older department store buildings.
It said:
Stirling Prescient said in planning documents:
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