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Jun
Harrogate’s Stray suffers ‘shocking damage’ after circus departs
A section of the Stray in Harrogate has been turned to mud after a travelling circus departed.
Circus Vegas took place on the Stray between Knaresborough Road and Oatlands Drive from Wednesday, June 12 to Sunday, June 16.
The vehicles moved on after yesterday’s final performance to reveal what Judy d’Arcy-Thompson, chair of the Stray Defence Association, described as a “shocking level of damage”.
Tyre marks were clearly visible and large swathes of grass had been replaced by mud.
How the Stray looked on Monday.
Ms d’Arcy-Thompson said she had received numerous photos and messages “from distressed and concerned residents” this morning. She added:
My experience is that that the Stray is normally relatively untouched and this shocking level of damage is very sad because it is an event that most look forward to and enjoy. What a shame that they have not shown more care.
Our Stray is there for people to enjoy and have fun and the Stray Act restricts both the type and time of shows.
It is, of course, impossible to predict weather conditions but North Yorkshire Council should have required appropriate insurance and agreements in order to afford correct and adequate protection.
The images brought memories of the 2019 UCI Road World Championships, which also took place during wet weather. A fan zone on the Stray turned to mud and caused £130,000 of damage, most of which was footed by taxpayers.
The latest incident raises questions about the use of the Stray for public events, particularly with more wet weather expected due to climate change.
Upcoming events on the Stray include Harrogate Food and Drink Festival on June 29 and 30, Harrogate Fake Festival on July 15 and Love To Be festival on September 14.
The Stray Ferret has contacted North Yorkshire Council, which is responsible for the maintenance of the 200 acres of green space, for a response to the concerns.
We have also attempted to contact Circus Vegas.
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