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:
“You can’t budge them and they do what they want. I’ve given up.
“It will affect us massively but nobody cares.”
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After being asked when Whinney Lane will reopen, a North Yorkshire County Council spokesperson said:
“Whinney Lane is currently closed due to the construction of two site accesses and a new roundabout for developments of new housing estates by Stonebridge Homes (130 dwellings), Mulgrave Properties (40 dwellings).
“These works are due to be completed by June 27. In addition, Yorkshire Water is doing works at the other end of Whinney Lane and are due to be completed June 30.”
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.
