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    14

    Sept 2023

    Last Updated: 14/09/2023
    Community
    Community

    Concerns over encampment of rough sleepers in Harrogate's Crescent Gardens

    by Flora Grafton

    | 14 Sept, 2023
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    Residents have spoken of their frustration over a lack of action against a group of rough sleepers camping in one of Harrogate's most popular areas.

    A group of homeless people have inhabited the pavilion alongside the toilets in Crescent Gardens over the last week.

    A Harrogate woman concerned about antisocial behaviour said she had been told by both North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Council that neither had any power to resolve the situation and she kept getting passed between the two.

    Eileen Dockray said the group had expanded as fellow rough sleepers and friends joined with their personal belongings.

    She said people were coming and going throughout the day and night, adding:

    "The council passed me to the police, the police back to the council, and then back the police.
    "The police also said they have no power to move people who are just people gathering to have a chat and to drink, no matter how it bothers residents. What are we meant to do?"




    Another Harrogate resident, who asked not to be named, said:

    "Many local residents are not able to access the area anymore and a few weekly exercise groups have moved to Valley Gardens.
    "The walking tour has also diverted its route."
    "I am surprised how the council does not act when a homeless encampment has popped up in the centre of our floral town where many visitors and locals frequently pass through."


    One rough sleeper, called Sally, told the Stray Ferret on Wednesday a council member of staff had visited Crescent Gardens that morning.

    Sally said she was advised to wait for a call to hear a range of options going forward but she had heard nothing since.

    We asked North Yorkshire Council what measures it was taking but had not received a response by the time of publication.

    A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said:

    "Homelessness is something the council look after so it would be for the council to answer your questions regarding the visit and/or the options available to those who may be sleeping rough."


    Cllr Sam Gibbs, a Conservative who represents Valley Gardens and Central Harrogate on North Yorkshire Council, told the Stray Ferret:

    "From what you have told me my instinct tells me it is a police matter as far as the anti-social behaviour is concerned as it is probably private land.
    "The council offers a range of support for rough sleepers and work closely with other organisations such as the Harrogate Homeless Project."


    Maggie Gibson, who was housing needs manager at the former Harrogate Borough Council, reported homelessness had “significantly increased” in the district amid the pandemic and cost of living crisis in February this year.




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