Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
09
Dec 2022
Council defends bid to create doomed investment zones in Harrogate district
The leader of North Yorkshire County Council has defended its decision to support the government's doomed investment zones.
The council submitted expressions of interest to create 11 zones, including three in the Harrogate district at junction 47 of the A1 near Knaresborough, business park Potter Space Ripon at junction 50 of the A1 and Harrogate Convention Centre.
The zones, which were a key policy under former Prime Minister Liz Truss’ administration, were supposed to benefit from tax incentives and liberalised planning regulations.
But some environmental groups expressed concerns about their potential impact on nature and the landscape.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced in his autumn statement the scheme would be focused towards research and the council’s proposals would no longer be taken forward.
Cllr Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire County Council, said the authority remained "committed” to economic growth in the county despite the decision.
He said:
0