Business centre at historic Knaresborough estate gets half a million pound makeover

Harrogate Borough Council said it made the investment to improve facilities for existing tenants and firms considering a move to the grade two listed building.

Conyngham Hall is home to several small businesses but the council said its facilities "did not meet the expectations tenants have for a modern business centre."

Works to upgrade the historic estate began before the coronavirus outbreak and now completed councillor Graham Swift, cabinet member for economic development, has hailed it as a "fantastic transformation".

He said: "There is a continuing need for small and start-up businesses to find high quality office space that provides excellent critical services.

“Conyngham Hall is now a fantastic choice for small and medium sized businesses who want to move from a kitchen table, expand their operations or for established firms looking to grow in a first class location with best in class services.”

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The works included upgrades to communal areas, kitchens, toilets and meeting spaces.

The council said the works have been carried out under the supervision of a conservation team to ensure period features of the listed building are retained.

The investment has also paid for faster internet, new carpets and redecoration.

Councillor Swift added: “As well as improving those internal spaces, we’ve made sure Conyngham Hall is better connected to the outside world with a significant upgrade to ultra-fast internet.

“We recognise that so many businesses rely on robust broadband these days and I am pleased that we are able to offer one of the best connections currently available."

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Separately, the grounds of Conyngham Hall are one of four locations in Knaresborough being considered for a new multi-million pound swimming pool and gym to serve the town.

However, more than 1,500 people have backed a campaign to protect the historic estate from development.

Local Liberal Democrats have warned the leisure centre would result in the "significant loss of much-valued green space", but the council has insisted no decision has been made and that residents will be consulted.

The other options being considered include Hay-a-Park and Knaresborough House.

A redevelopment of the town’s existing 29-year-old swimming pool on King James Road is also on the cards.

By Jacob Webster, Local Democracy Reporter