A decades-long wait to build flats on a former petrol station at Skellbank in Ripon could finally end soon.
The site has been derelict for more than 20 years and has been described as an “eyesore” by local residents.
In 2003, Harrogate Borough Council approved a plan to demolish it in order to build eight flats but it never came to fruition with the permission now lapsed.
A similar plan was submitted in 2016 but was then withdrawn three years later.
However, Ripon City Council leader Andrew Williams revealed at a recent meeting that he’s had confirmation from the site’s owner that it will submit a new planning application for eight flats in the next few weeks.
The former petrol station is in a residential area on the edge of the city centre and is on the route from Ripon towards popular tourist landmark Fountains Abbey.
Cllr Williams said:
“I’m hopeful that an application will be lodged in next few weeks that will hopefully, after decades of this land being derelict and an eyesore, mean it’s brought back into constructive use.
“Members of this council have repeatedly expressed concerns about this site and I’ve used what influence I have to get it this far. I’ve also had indication that the owner would consider screening the site in the interim.
“Residents in that area have for years had to look out onto that piece of land. I hope in the next 12 months that piece of land will be transformed into something much more appropriate.”
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Second arrest in Pateley Bridge petrol station attempted arson
Police have arrested a second man in connection with an attempted arson in Pateley Bridge.
Officers say the incident happened between 1.45am and 2.45am on Sunday, May 14, at the Dales Market Corner petrol station in the town.
According to North Yorkshire Police, two men walked onto the forecourt, placed a backpack in the area and set it alight. The backpack then self-extinguished.
Police today confirmed a 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the incident.
He currently remains in police custody.
A 36-year-old man had previously been arrested on suspicion of arson and criminal damage on May 14. He was interviewed and later released on conditional bail.
The force said no charges have been issued at this stage and investigations continue.
Jill Cowling, detective inspector from Harrogate CID, said previously:
“We’re treating this incident as deliberate, and enquiries are continuing. Thankfully no one was injured, but we will be increasing police activity in the area to provide additional reassurance to the public.
“As part of the ongoing police investigation I’m now appealing for people to come forward about any suspicious activity at the location on the night of Saturday 13 and in the early hours of Sunday 14 May 2023.”
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Knaresborough petrol station to reopen after 10-week refurbishment
A petrol station in Knaresborough is set to reopen its doors after a 10-week long renovation.
Co-op petrol station on Boroughbridge Road will open tomorrow with a new look and a much bigger emphasis on the food store.
The convenience retailer has almost doubled the size of the food store which now covers more than 2,600 square feet. The filling station also has new pumps and and a new canopy.
Due to the renovation there are vacancies for up to four staff. In total the new-look site will support 12 jobs.
Inside the store customers will find a bakery, hot food, a Costa coffee dispenser, more fresh, healthy products as well as food-to-go, wines, ready meals and everyday essentials.
A new addition to the site includes a recycle unit for “soft plastics” which currently covers Co-op’s own food packaging.
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Scott Wilson, Co-op store manager, said:
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to make such a significant investment in Knaresborough.
“The investment has enabled Co-op to provide a new, improved and larger food store, create new local jobs and, overhaul the petrol filling station – to better serve our community.
“We have worked to develop the range, choice, products and parcel collection services to create a really compelling offer to serve the community with its food and fuel needs, conveniently.”
Michael Calvert, Co-op area manager, added:
Thieves rip Knaresborough ATM from wall“Co-op is committed to connecting communities and making a difference locally, and our aim is to operate at the heart of local life.
“We also want customers to know that they can become a member of the Co-op.
“In addition to unlocking additional value and personalised offers, Co-op donates to community causes when members swipe their membership card.
“So by shopping at the Co-op our members are helping to make good things happen in their community.”
Thieves appear to have stolen an ATM machine at the Co-Op petrol station on Wetherby Road in Knaresborough.
The incident is believed to have taken place during the early hours of the morning today.
A resident who lives nearby posted on a Knaresborough Facebook group to say he was awoken by a loud bang at 3am.
It seems the thieves managed to ripped out the ATM and escape with the money.
The petrol station was taped off by police earlier today but is now back open.
The Stray Ferret has asked North Yorkshire Police for details but has not received a response.
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