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17
Jun 2021
Harrogate council leader: Sustainable transport 'will always cause controversy'
Harrogate Borough Council leader Richard Cooper says schemes to improve walking and cycling infrastructure in the town "will always cause controversy" but they are essential to reduce emissions.
Cllr Cooper was speaking yesterday evening at a Q+A session for members of the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Coalition, of which he is vice-chair.
Proposals such as the Station Gateway scheme have divided opinion in Harrogate with some welcoming it as a bold step to encourage people out of cars but others believing it will hurt local businesses and shops.
The Stray Ferret asked Cllr Cooper why these schemes have been so divisive and what local politicians can do to ensure they bring all residents along with them.
In response, he said local politicians have "to be honest with people" about the climate challenges ahead and accept that they will not please everyone.
He said:
He added:
Read more:
Survey shows rising concern about climate change in Harrogate
Green Shoots: Harrogate’s most environmentally-friendly house?
Cllr Cooper also responded to a question about the impact of new housing developments on the environment in Yorkshire.
He said that in Harrogate he gets housing developers together with residents to discuss environmental issues.
The Yorkshire and Humber Climate Coalition was set up earlier this year to bring public, private and third sectors together to support climate actions across the region.
Other members include Liz Barber, the CEO of Yorkshire Water, Dan Jarvis MP, the Mayor of the Sheffield City Region, and Professor Andy Gouldson from the University of Leeds.
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