Council adopts 'masterplan' vision for Harrogate town centre
A vision of how the town centre could develop over the next decade has been agreed by Harrogate Borough Council (HBC).
Councillors at the HBC cabinet meeting last night (25 May) agreed to adopt the town strategy and masterplan, with recommended changes, as a Supplementary Planning Document.
Following the meeting, the masterplan will now be used to bring forward changes to the town and inform decisions on future planning applications in the town centre.
Councillor Rebecca Burnett HBC Cabinet Member for Planning and Sustainable Transport said: “Harrogate town centre plays a pivotal role in driving the local economy. It is the district’s largest retail, leisure, business and tourist destination, a major conference and exhibition venue.
“The vision for 2025 is for Harrogate to be a leading UK destination and an important source of local employment.
“To this end, in developing a town centre strategy and masterplan for Harrogate we have focused on creating something distinctive, something that will differentiate Harrogate from its regional and national competitors, that incorporates outstanding public areas, unique conference facilities, a special blend of retail and leisure, and with integrated and sustainable transport systems.”
HBC have said the document does not contain planning policies, or allocate land for development.
However it does include 'policy recommendations and potential development opportunities' that the council say will be taken forward in the HBC emerging local plan.
Now that the draft strategy has been adopted, including amendments following last autumn’s public consultation, the council will be deciding how and when projects can start.
The council said it will seek to work with all relevant stakeholders in developing and delivering the projects, including engagement with the public and businesses.