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May 2020

Last Updated: 18/05/2020

Harrogate

Trade bodies give mixed reactions to Harrogate parking restrictions

by Calvin Robinson

| 18 May, 2020

Harrogate BID has welcomed the measures but called for clear signage for drivers. But Independent Harrogate has called for a rethink on the restrictions.

Trade associations in Harrogate have given mixed reactions to parking restrictions put in place in the town to enable social distancing.

Harrogate Business Improvement District welcomed the measures but said it was important that clear signage was put in place to indicate where people can park, while Independent Harrogate called on the county council to rethink the measures.

North Yorkshire County Council has put the restrictions in place on James Street, Commercial Street and parts of Albert Street in Harrogate and elsewhere in the district.

Sara Ferguson, acting chairman of the Harrogate BID, said the town still needed to welcome people coming in cars despite the restrictions.

She said: “Whilst we welcome the measures put in place to assist social distancing in Harrogate town centre, it’s imperative that there is clear signage indicating where there is parking.

“As shops start to reopen from June 1, the last thing we want is returning customers being put off coming to Harrogate due to inadequate parking spaces in and around the town centre.

“Because people will understandably be cautious about travelling by public transport, we need to take this into account and not punish car users, but welcome them.

“There needs to clear signage on the main approaches into the town as well as within it, plus information on both North Yorkshire County Council and Harrogate Borough Councils as to which streets and carparks are open. We will gladly carry this information on our website too, and promote it regularly via our social media channels.”

Meanwhile, Independent Harrogate said that it was disappointed that the restrictions had been put in place and called for a rethink on the measures.

A spokesperson said: “Independent Harrogate feels we should be encouraging visitors to the town, not discouraging them if businesses are to survive. We are all working hard behind closed doors implementing procedures that will keep our customers safe, ready for when the government allow restrictions to be relaxed.

“Harrogate needs to send out a message that we are open for business and will be pleased to welcome you.

“We feel the new restrictions could be dangerous for pedestrians too! For example, the parking bays on James Street and Albert Street are ipso facto - a pavement. These areas are full of pot holes and Appy Parking road-pods, which may be extremely hazardous for disabled and partially sighted visitors and customers.

“We would urge NYCC to think again about their recent parking restrictions and work with us, together we can work out how to encourage visitor and customers back into the town centre and not discourage them.”