Barry Adams is an award-winning architect and a Yorkshireman by birth who retired to Harrogate 14 years ago. He is passionate about design, particularly in relation to the historic built environment and how this can be integrated into modern development.

Harrogate Business Improvement District recently announced the appointment of a new chief executive, Jason Maxwell. 

 At the time, I commented saying: "Let's hope he can deliver something better for Christmas 2026 which truly reflects the character of Harrogate - Being Different, Being Best”.

So what advice would I have for Mr Maxwell now he has taken up his post and is hopefully getting to know and understand Harrogate?

Harrogate is a unique town with a longstanding reputation all round for quality and success, its independent shops, its floral displays and its big open spaces such as the Stray. Harrogate's identity as a spa town is central to its historical and cultural appeal.

It is the richness of the historic buildings and their contribution to the urban environment, the ambience they create, all sitting in a cohesive conservation area that holds my particular interest as a resident of the town.

Ultimately though, the vibrancy of a town is not just reliant on design considerations and its visual appeal but on a considered, inclusive framework which fully understands and embraces all factors that make the town vibrant and sparkling - not just active travel issues, for instance.

In that respect Harrogate is highly dependent on its economic success. But that success is not guaranteed as we have witnessed over the last decade with declining trading conditions, despite the efforts of Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce, Independent Harrogate and the BID battling against those with little understanding of Harrogate.

All have an equally important part to play in issues such as solving the ever-increasing problems of traffic congestion, poor access to Harrogate for road users and parking issues.

Regain reputation for quality and success

It is therefore essential that Jason Maxwell has the commitment to and an understanding of what Harrogate is trying to achieve and fully embraces this ethos through ongoing contact with other business organisations. 

 It is also essential that he has the impetus for Harrogate to regain its reputation for quality and success – the jewel in the crown of Yorkshire. Harrogate's strength lies in it Being Different – Being Best through the businesses with their vast expertise and experience of Harrogate together with key landowners who have a considerable stake in the town.

History informs our future and contributes to the ultimate success of a town, but it must always embrace progress. Harrogate’s legacy must reflect this to shape its brand and encourage tourism.

It is not against change. However, future development must be thoughtful, strategic, and true to what makes the town special and attractive to visitors.

A strong mix of independent shops must be encouraged to set it apart from high streets dominated by chains. This diversity adds to its character and appeal. The BID should avoid the generic, one-size fits all approach.

Above all, Harrogate’s future should reflect its own identity - not that of Leeds, York, or anywhere else. A successful vision must proudly say ‘this is Harrogate’. So, no more trash events such as the poor quality Christmas fayre we all endured last year and I commented on here.

The BID must continue to shape a brand which has quality, which businesses, residents and visitors can all benefit from. A ‘brand’ which makes Harrogate stand out from the crowd.

All this will add another chapter to the success and ongoing history of the town, otherwise there is a danger of Harrogate becoming a ghost town as a result of certain vanity projects. After all places only come to life when people bring life to them.