Subscribe to trusted local news
If you are accessing this story via Facebook but you are a subscriber then you will be unable to access the story. Facebook wants you to stay and read in the app and your login details are not shared with Facebook. If you experience problems with accessing the news but have subscribed, please contact subscriptions@thestrayferret.co.uk. 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.
16
Apr 2021
Harrogate MP backs outdoor dining on the Stray campaign
Harrogate and Knaresborough's MP has thrown his weight behind a campaign for outdoor dining to return to the Stray.
Andrew Jones MP met Sharon and Simon Colgan, owners of the Blues Bar and The Empress, as well Trish Campbell, bar manager at The Empress, today.
While Mr Jones refused to speak to the Stray Ferret during or after the meeting, the bar owners said that he supported their campaign.
Harrogate Borough Council recently told the Blues Bar, The Empress and Fashion House Bistro that they cannot use tables and chairs on the Stray this year.
Read more:
- Bars not allowed to use Stray land for outdoor dining
- Knaresborough cat lucky to be alive after acid attack
The council did approve the measure last year but said after consulting with land owners the Duchy of Lancaster that it "would not be appropriate at this stage."
Part of the reason the council gave was that it could "potentially inhibit the open access and enjoyment for all."
Simon Colgan, co owner of The Empress and Blues Bar, told the Stray Ferret after his meeting with Mr Jones:
0