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09
Sept
The enduring mystery of Harrogate’s abandoned hotel
A hotel in Harrogate has been left standing empty for nearly six years, leading to incidents of anti-social behaviour and even a fire.
But despite the derelict building causing concern for local people, it remains unknown what is to happen with the site next.
As recently as August 29, police were called to the former Kimberley Hotel, on King's Road, after two children gained access and were found exploring the dangerous site.
Police warned that the building presented ‘significant dangers’, including holes in the floors and the presence of asbestos.
The statement added:
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident, and we are currently receiving reports of children gaining entry to the building on a regular basis.
While exploring abandoned buildings may seem exciting, these locations can contain hidden hazards that pose a real threat to safety. What may appear to be harmless fun can quickly result in serious injury or exposure to dangerous substances.
In 2023 the hotel, which closed in December 2020, suffered an arson attack, and soon after North Yorkshire Police said it was contacting the owners to ensure they secured the premises and would take action if they failed to comply.
The police put in place a ‘problem-solving plan’ in the wake of crime and anti-social behaviour at the premises in October 2023, but it ended in June 2024 after police hailed the plan a success.
Inside the hotel after the fire in 2023. Picture: Harrogate Fire Station.
At the time, the Stray Ferret investigated to try to find out what would happen next to the site, still deemed by locals to be an eyesore.
In 2024 a North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said:
At the height of the concerns in August last year [2023], there were eight incidents linked to the property during that month alone.
These reports involved a mix of young people, vulnerable adults, street drinkers and sometimes the homeless. As well as trying to use the building, associated crimes included criminal damage, evidence of drug use and arson.
Since the turn of the year, there were no incidents reported in January, one in February, a blip in March with five, one in April and none to date since May.
The improved situation is welcomed by all concerned, however the property remains on the Harrogate inner patrol plan.
After the latest police appeal at the end of last month, raising concerns about children exploring the derelict site, the Stray Ferret sought to get updates on the premises.
It has been harder than anticipated.
When asked for further information on what will be done to secure the hotel, and if another problem solving plan was to be put in place, a North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Work is ongoing with community partners to address this issue by liaising with the owners to make the site more secure.”
The Stray Ferret also contacted Harrogate Town Council, which said it had no information and to ask North Yorkshire Council, which has yet to respond.
We also approached Councillor Peter Lacey, the Liberal Democrat who represents the area on North Yorkshire Council, but he hasn't provided any information.
No response was received when contacting four different people involved in the Kimberley Hotel, who had previously communicated with the Stray Ferret on the matter.
We will continue to ask questions and update readers on developments at the former hotel that will soon have been a blight on King's Road for seven years.
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