The landlord of the Squinting Cat pub in Harrogate has spoken out against the controversial road closure of Whinney Lane — which could now last until June 30.

The road was initially closed in July 2020 due to the construction of access points for two new housing developments as well as a new roundabout.

North Yorkshire County Council had told residents the road would be back open by February 28 this year. However, this was put back until April with the county council blaming snow for the delay.

NYCC now says the works will not be completed until June 30. A spokesperson did not give a reason for the delay.

Andy Harrison, landlord of the Squinting Cat which is on Whinney Lane, said he had not been informed of the road closure being extended until being told about it by the Stray Ferret.

He called the nearly 12-month long closure "just ridiculous" and said it will have an impact on the pub's trade.

He said:

Read more:

• 
  

  Snow forces extended closure of Whinney Lane

  
  


• 
  

  Whinney Lane lights ‘like Leeds Bradford Airport runway’

  
  

A spokesperson for Mulgrave Properties said its works within the highway was completed "some time ago."

The Stray Ferret also contacted Stonebridge Homes for a response but we did not receive one by the time of publication.