Tory transport chief urges Lib Dems to back scaled-back Harrogate Station Gateway

The Conservative councillor in charge of transport at North Yorkshire Council has urged local Liberal Democrat members to support the scaled-back Harrogate Station Gateway proposals.

The £11.2m scheme’s most controversial aspects, such as the single-lane proposals for Station Parade and the part-pedestrianisation of James Street, are set to be dropped for it to proceed and to avoid legal peril for the council.

The plans were thrown into doubt over the summer when Harrogate-based property firm Hornbeam Park Developments, which owns several commercial properties on James Street, issued a legal challenge.

Conservative executive member for transport Keane Duncan and the Liberal Democrats have had a turbulent relationship when it comes to the Station Gateway.

In July, Cllr Duncan accused the Lib Dems of “playing politics” after it withdrew support. Then in August, the party called on him to resign due to his handling of the project.

But at a meeting in Northallerton last week, Cllr Duncan made a plea for unity ahead of a final decision on whether the project will move forward.

One Arch

This will be made by the council’s ruling Conservative executive so does not require cross-party support to get it over the line but Cllr Duncan said he still hopes it can be backed by councillors in the town.

He said:

“My sincere hope is that Conservative and Liberal Democrat councillors can unite behind a deliverable plan that secures £11m of investment for Harrogate. This is important for Harrogate and it’s important for North Yorkshire too.”

Funding for the Station Gateway is coming from the government’s Transforming Cities Fund but Cllr Duncan warned that if it doesn’t proceed and money has to be handed back to Whitehall it could risk future funding bids for the whole county.

He added:

“We should not return hard-fought money to government. This would be immensely damaging to the reputation of this council and future investment for our county. I am committed to working with Harrogate and Knaresborough colleagues to devise a proposal that commands clear public and business support.”

‘Complete incompetence’

In recent weeks, meetings have taken place between council officers working on the scheme and local councillors, including a walk around the proposed Station Gateway area where councillors of all parties have made suggestions.

Chris Aldred, Liberal Democrat councillor for High Harrogate & Kingsley, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the party accepts changes must be made to the scheme, which he blamed on “complete incompetence” by Cllr Duncan and the Conservatives.

He added:

“While further pedestrianisation of some areas of Harrogate town centre and much-needed improved connectivity for cyclists remain in our long term vision for the town, it is unfortunate that these must remain, in the main, long term aspirations, which can’t now happen within this scheme.

“However we do feel that some of the real positive elements of the scheme remain achievable within the timescale, such as a dedicated bus lane improving access to the bus station, improvements of the public realm in Station Square and One Arch, improved covered cycling storage and better connectivity of traffic lights and crossings for pedestrians and vehicles.

“The Lib Dem group regrets that the engagement with local residents and the town centre business community, as well as local councillors, which we called for back in May, has only just started to happen now. But we look forward to more of it in the next few weeks and hope to play our part in delivering these much needed improvements within the town centre.”

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‘Operational challenges’ delay major Harrogate roadworks

The completion of seven weeks of roadworks in Harrogate town centre has been delayed, Northern Gas Networks has said.

The company has been replacing metal pipes with plastic pipes on some of the main routes, including Parliament Street, King’s Road and Cold Bath Road.

The project was due to end yesterday but Mark Mawhood, operations manager for Northern Gas Networks, said:

“I can confirm that the extensive work taking place in Harrogate will be completed this week.

“We will however need to return to complete a small section of the network, which due to some operational challenges could not be completed in the timeframe. The planning team is currently working on dates for when this work will be caried out and we will then notify the public and media once this is scheduled.

“We apologise for inconvenience caused during these works, and we thank the public for their patience during this large-scale scheme.”

The roadworks are the second phase of delayed works  that were “paused” a year ago.

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LGBTQ+ event in Harrogate to focus minds on Pride parade in 2024

Members of Harrogate’s LGBTQ+ community will be holding a free event at Revolución de Cuba on Parliament Street this week. 

One Love, which is organised by Harrogate Pride Events, is intended as an inclusive event where like-minded people can meet up, drink, dance and relax in a safe space. 

Organiser and DJ Craig Joynson told the Stray Ferret: 

“We’re not charging any money for this. It’s really somewhere you can be yourself and relax with other people who are being themselves too. 

“It’s also a way of letting people know that there is an LGBTQ community here in Harrogate.” 

One Love is the latest in a series of such events that have been held at various places around the town, including a packed evening at Major Tom’s Social on the August Bank Holiday, quiz nights at Lilypad and a regular evening at The Disappearing Chin on the first Friday of each month.

Mr Joynson and other members of the LGBTQ community hope these events will all help to focus efforts to put on a Pride parade in Harrogate next year. He said: 

“That’s the ambition over the longer term. There were a few Pride parades held in Harrogate before the lockdowns and they were very successful, so we’d really like to bring them back. 

“We’ve got a committee now, which is in talks about the council about holding an event, but we don’t know yet where or when it will be held, or even if we have permission, so it’s very much in its infancy.” 

One Love will be held at Revolución de Cuba on Friday, November 24, from 7pm. 

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Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal 2023: ‘Carers are losing their loved ones before their eyes’

This year’s Stray Ferret Christmas Appeal is to raise £30,000 for a much-needed minibus for Dementia Forward in the Harrogate district. 

The appeal is kindly sponsored by Vida Healthcare.

Please give generously to support local people and their families living with dementia. Let’s not forget those that need help this Christmas.

Today, Flora spoke to people at the wellbeing café.

“People are here for three hours of fun, no matter what stage they’re at with this horrible illness.”

This is how Gordon, a volunteer at Dementia Forward’s wellbeing café, described the weekly group.

The café takes place every Tuesday at Christ Church in Harrogate. It provides a safe space and good company for those living with dementia, as well as some much-needed respite for carers.

People enjoy a bowl of soup, coffee and cake followed by a range of activities. Some members played table tennis and curling, while others painted their nails and tackled jigsaws.

Margaret Kingston, a regular at the café, said:

“My son found out about the café for me. I come every Tuesday now.

“I like to play table tennis and draw – it’s helping people that maybe don’t have any family.”

Many people battling dementia can feel extremely lonely, even with their loved ones by their side. The café, along with Dementia Forward’s other social groups, helps to combat that isolation.

Another member said:

“I try to come every week – I like to be involved. I’ve made friends since coming here.”

 

The café also offers a place for carers – often a spouse or offspring – to discuss the devastating effects of this evil disease: a place to feel understood.

Sheila, who has volunteered at the café since 2018, added:

“The carers need as much care as the clients.

“The team have fun and the clients and carers all recognise that.”

Members of the wellbeing café.

The Dementia Forward team work tirelessly to improve the lives of those living with dementia and those around them.

The wellbeing café is one of many amazing services on offer. Gordon said:

“Carers are losing their loved ones before their eyes – it is the most wretched thing to see. They are the bravest people.

“That’s why they need the support.”

Thousands of families across the Harrogate district are fighting this evil disease every day. Dementia Forward eases the pain as much as it can – but can only do so with the help of charitable donations.

Every donation to our campaign will go directly to Dementia Forward, helping us hit our £30,000 target to buy the charity a new minibus and bettering the lives of those living with dementia and the people around them.

Dementia Forward’s current bus is old and urgently needs to be replaced. The charity would seriously struggle to afford a new one, which is why they need your help to keep this vital service going. Without it, many people living with dementia simply wouldn’t be able to access the help and support they need. 

Please click here to donate whatever you can – you never know when you, your family or a friend may be in need of Dementia Forward’s help too.

Thank you.

The NHS found that one in 11 people over the age of 65 in the UK are living with dementia. If you need urgent help or have a dementia-related enquiry, call 0330 057 8592 to speak to a helpline adviser.

Starbeck tap dancers take part in world record bid

Forty dancers from Starbeck took part in a bid to break the world record yesterday for the largest number of people to perform the same tap routine at multiple venues simultaneously.

Children and adults from Summerbell Dance Academy took to the floor of the Victoria suite at the Crown Hotel in Harrogate as part of BBC Children in Need’s fundraising activities.

The youngest tapper was aged two and the oldest was 86.

They performed a routine they had been learning since September to Wham!’s Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.

The figures are being collated today to see whether the tapathon world record of 7,596 was beaten.

Regardless of whether the target was achieved, the local dancers managed to raise £380 for Children in Need.

Performing their routine at the Crown Hotel.

Jennie Summerbell, the principal of Summerbell Dance Academy, said:

“It was a national initiative but it gave us a challenge and something to aim for.”

Summerbell Dance Academy, which is based at St Andrew’s church hall in Starbeck, has 200 students.

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A Christmas Networking Extravaganza at Starlings Bar and Kitchen

The festive season is nearly upon us, and what better way to kick off the fun than by attending a Christmas networking event at Starling Bar and Kitchen in Harrogate on November 30th.

This promises to be an evening filled with laughter, good company, and the spirit of giving, all in support of the Christmas appeal for Dementia Forward.

The highlight of the evening will be a fun Christmas quiz, adding a competitive edge to the networking experience. Gather your colleagues and friends to form teams and put your Christmas knowledge to the test. The winning team will not only earn bragging rights but will also each take home a delectable hamper filled with Mr. Stanley’s fudge and sweet goodies. It’s the perfect way to blend merriment with a touch of friendly competition.

In the true spirit of giving, the event will also feature a raffle with an array of fantastic prizes generously donated by local companies.

The proceeds from the raffle will contribute to the Christmas appeal for Dementia Forward, making this evening not just about professional connections but also about making a positive impact in the community.

Among the coveted prizes up for grabs are Cloud Nine hair straighteners, ensuring you’ll be in style for all Christmas events. The Inn Collection Group has contributed a £55 dinner voucher, providing the perfect excuse for a festive night out. If you’re looking to bring the holiday spirit into your home, Jules B has donated a luxurious Dr. Vranjes Firenze diffuser worth a whopping £350.

For those seeking a more active experience, there’s the opportunity to win 2 hours free at Surge Padel, a thrilling and engaging sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Sports enthusiasts will also appreciate the family ticket to watch the Leeds Knights, a fantastic ice hockey team that promises an exciting evening for all.

For a touch of magic, win 2 tickets to the enchanting Harlow Carr Christmas Glow event, where the gardens come alive with festive lights and decorations. Finally, the Christmas bundle from Sophie Allport is a delightful addition, ensuring your home is adorned with charming and seasonal decorations.

Starling Bar and Kitchen is the perfect venue for this festive gathering, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere for networking and celebration in the heart of Harrogate.

Gather your colleagues and friends, and join us at Starlings Bar and Kitchen for a night of networking, laughter, and giving.

Click or tap here to register your ticket now, as space is limited.

Business Breakfast: Harrogate marketing agency wins contract

Are you already thinking of how to reward your employees this Christmas? Why not choose the Harrogate Gift Card?

The Harrogate Gift Card can be spent in over 100 businesses in Harrogate town centre including retail, hospitality and leisure, whilst keeping the spend locked into the local economy.

Complete a corporate bulk order of over £250 and receive 15% discount from November 1 to 15 with the code ‘HGT15’.

A Harrogate marketing agency has won a contract with a luxury car financial broker.

The Big Bamboo Agency, which is based at Windsor House, has been appointed by Apollo Capital to oversee its communications.

The company will be tasked with overseeing Apollo’s PR, social media strategy and implementation as well as brand, design and community positioning work.

Nicola Stamford, founding director of Big Bamboo, said:

“We are thrilled to have been appointed by Apollo Capital, which is a leading player in its field.

“The company’s story is an impressive one, led by a very passionate and inspirational CEO, managing director and wider team – all of whom we look forward to working with.”

Small businesses offered £10,000 grants

Small businesses in the Harrogate district are being urged to bid for up to £10,000 of funding.

The fund, administered by North Yorkshire Council through the North Yorkshire UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF), is focused on increasing business growth, productivity and resilience.

Grants of between £1,000 and £10,000 are available.

Micro businesses, with less than 10 employees, and small firms with less than 50 employees can also access free support beyond the grant through the business advisory teams at the council and the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub.

Cllr Carl Les, council leader and chair of the shared prosperity fund board, said:

“We are delighted to open up this funding stream, which we hope will be accessed by all – sole traders, start-ups, home businesses and social enterprises as well as landlords and people looking to diversify their farm businesses and limited companies.”

For more information on how to apply for the grants, visit the North Yorkshire Council website here.

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Stray Views: ‘Shame’ on councillors who voted for allowance rise

Stray Views is a weekly column giving you the chance to have your say on issues affecting the Harrogate district. It is an opinion column and does not reflect the views of the Stray Ferret. Send your views to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk.

How dare they give themselves a pay rise at this time. They already all got a rise when everything went to Northallerton because they were going to have more responsibility with the wider district to cover. 

Then instead of the economies of scale and savings we were promised we find they have given us £25 million debt. Shame on them.

Diane Stokes, Starbeck

Briggate would be fixed quicker in Northallerton

I have just read John Plummer’s article on the lack of progress with the roadworks on Briggate, Knaresborough

I believe that Ms Burnham is being somewhat economical with the truth when she states that the work will take until Christmas to complete but only begin in a few weeks time. There are only 25 working days until Christmas.

I also believe that had this happened in Northallerton – it would have been fixed in September. It is not equitable to leave local council tax payers ‘simply’ having to put up with the daily misery of the situation which currently has no committed end in sight

Having examined the collapse closely myself, the rubble could easily be removed – thus freeing up the road again. Despite significant rainfall and gale force winds since September it has shown no further signs of collapse. I note also that the houses above have not been evacuated nor the footpath itself closed to pedestrians. The situation could then be monitored regularly until such time as the work could be carried out.

And bad weather can’t be blamed for lack of progress either since it hasn’t prevented significant , planned gas works from being carried out on Aspin Lane etc

Ultimately the situation appears to boil down to the council’s apathy or disinterest in sorting this problem out for local taxpayers.

Alice Woolley, Knaresborough

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Thanks to Connexions Buses

Connexions Buses have ended their X1A and B services Harrogate to Knaresbrough estates.

I would like to thank them for their reliable service over the past years and the friendly drivers who always would wait for us older passengers to be seated and wish them all the best for their future employment.

Paul Smith, Knaresborough

Do you have an opinion on the Harrogate district? Email us at letters@thestrayferret.co.uk. Please include your name and approximate location details. Limit your letters to 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

Bilton Grange remains a ‘good’ school, says Ofsted

Bilton Grange Primary School in Harrogate has retained its ‘good’ rating by Ofsted.

The findings were published in a report on Thursday, following an inspection in October.

It comes after the school was rated ‘good’ in 2018. Ofsted carries out short routine inspections every four years to confirm schools previously assessed as ‘good’ have maintained standards.

Government inspectors said the school, which is part of the Yorkshire Collaborative Academy Trust, is a “very happy place to learn” and found “pupils are proud to be themselves”.

The report added:

“The school has established a curriculum that helps pupils to secure a deep knowledge of the subjects that they encounter.

“Leaders have established an extra-curricular offer that significantly enriches pupils’ learning.

“Learning is brought to life by visits and trips, as well as the clubs on offer. Many pupils attend the exceptional school choir. They enjoy the frequent opportunities to rehearse and perform. Pupils participate with pride and enthusiasm.”

Behaviour is exemplary, inspectors added, and said the school, which has 315 pupils, gives children the right support when they struggle to manage their behaviour.

The report also said, “pupils recognise the importance of their learning, so lessons are calm and focused”, adding that children “understand what they learn now will support them in the future”.

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The inspectors found:

“Pupils understand differences and know that everyone deserves to be respected. One pupil summed this up saying, ‘we are a respectful community here.’

“Pupils talk with maturity about issues such as healthy relationships and consent.

“They are well prepared for their future lives.”

The report also said pupils receive expert guidance from teachers across a range of subjects, adding:

“Pupils find this learning absorbing.  As a result, their knowledge is impressive.

“Children in early years get off to a flying start with phonics. They use their secure knowledge of phonics to become confident readers.”

Inspectors also noted pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) “learn the same ambitious curriculum as their peers”, and said adults “work to remove any barriers that pupils might face to their learning”.

Pupils with SEND flourish because of this support, the report added.

The report also praised those responsible for governance for being “extremely knowledgeable about the school”, and said “the trust and the school deliver highly effective support and professional development for staff at all levels”.

It did not include any areas of improvement for the school to work on.

Ofsted also said, if a graded inspection was carried out now, the evidence gathered suggests it might be rated ‘outstanding’.

‘We are thrilled’

Sian James.

In response to the report, Sian James, headteacher of Bilton Grange Primary School, said:

“The report captures everything about Bilton Grange Primary School that we are so very proud of.
“Everything we do at Bilton Grange has the children’s best interests at heart and we are thrilled this ethos was encapsulated throughout the inspection.
“Our success is because of the dedication and talents of everyone who works at Bilton Grange, alongside the fantastic support we receive from our Academy Trust, YCAT, and the positive relationships we have we our parents, carers and of course our amazing children.”
Photo of the Week: Tewit Well

This week’s photograph was taken by Brian Morrison, capturing the autumnal colours around Tewit Well in Harrogate.

Brian Morrison

Photo of the Week celebrates the Harrogate district. It could be anything from family life to capturing the district’s beauty. We are interested in amateur and professional photographs, in a landscape format.

Send your photographs to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk for a chance to be featured next week, we reserve the right to adjust and crop images to fit into our format.