Harewood House reveals details of major redevelopment

Architects have been appointed to lead a major long-term redevelopment at Harewood House.

The scheme will see a new playground and visitor centre created and the gardens overhauled at the historic home of the Earl and Countess of Harewood.

Harewood House Trust, the charity that maintains the stately home between Harrogate and Leeds, said today the project will “deliver fantastic enhancements to Harewood’s visitor offer”.

It has declined to reveal the cost but said the project will be partly funded by the Lascelles Family Will Trust and by fundraising.

More than 250,000 visitors a year visit the grade I listed house, gardens and landscapes designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.

This year the bird garden closed after more than 50 years and more major changes are now in the pipeline.

The bakehouse, a grade two listed building, will be converted to a welcome centre with visitor facilities and a family activity space.

The old play area will be replaced with what the trust described as “an imaginative and inclusive playground with appeal for all ages and abilities”.

The gardens and landscapes will be reimagined by the Landscape Agency in partnership with garden designer Matthew Wilson.

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Leeds firm Bauman Lyons Architects has been appointed to lead the scheme.

Rachel Crewes, chief executive of the trust, said:

“We are delighted to announce the appointment of such impressive teams at the outset of this project. Their combined experience of creatively developing public heritage spaces, with great sensitivity to conservation, sustainability and accessibility, will undoubtedly deliver fantastic enhancements to Harewood’s visitor offer.”

The trust hopes to apply for planning permission late this year and begin work on the playground first next year.

The Stray Ferret has asked the trust, which is fundraising for the project, how much it is expected to cost.

New visitor centre and events space planned in Harrogate

Early plans have been revealed to create a visitor centre and events space in Harrogate.

The venue would be created by transforming West Park United Reformed Church, which overlooks the Stray on West Park.

Harrogate District Improvement Trust is holding a meeting at Hotel du Vin on June 13 to discuss the proposal.

West Park United Reformed Church

The trust, which was set up to promote improvements in Harrogate, said in an email announcing the meeting it was “an opportunity to create a major attraction  for Harrogate”, adding:

“The West Park United Reformed Church building is too large for its current congregation but has potential to house a visitor centre showcasing Harrogate’s spa history, as well as a large events space.

“Plans are at a very early stage but include the creation of a community arts and heritage centre.

“We would really appreciate the chance to present our vision to you and gather your feedback. “

The email urged those unable to attend to get in touch so look around the building and meet with trustees to find out more.

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