Ricky Durkin

6:30am - 10:00am

Email the studio

Kiss

Crazy Crazy Nights

Listen Live

Harrogate MP calls for more support to clear remaining snow and ice

Wednesday, 8 January 2025 14:27

Some footpaths and roads around the Harrogate area remain in a dangerously icy condition.

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has called for urgent action to address the hazardous conditions on pavements around the area.

A number of roads and pavements around the area are still covered in layers of snow and ice following the significant snowfall on Saturday night (4th January).

In an effort to find a solution, Mr Gordon has been in direct contact with North Yorkshire Council leaders Richard Flinton and Karl Battersby.

He said he has received a "number of complaints" from constituents and businesses who are frustrated that, whilst some of the main roads have been cleared, most other roads - and pavements - have not.

Some of the busiest streets in the area such as Harrogate Town Centre, Starbeck High Street and Knaresborough Market Square, remain icy.

Tom said:

"The conditions we are seeing in Harrogate and Knaresborough are not just an inconvenience, they’re a safety issue.

"People in Harrogate and Knaresborough are effectively trapped in their homes.

"Many schools are shut, businesses are taking a hit and the elderly and vulnerable are isolated. I completely understand residents’ frustrations."

In discussions with Richard Flinton and Karl Battersby, Tom has urged the Council to reallocate resources from areas that have already been cleared to support local efforts in clearing roads and pavements in Harrogate and Knaresborough.

He specifically called for side roads to be prioritised so that residents can safely access cleared main routes.

Additionally, he pressed for immediate attention to clearing main footpaths, allowing those who wish to travel on foot to do so safely.

He added:

"I have been in touch with the Council today to push for immediate solutions, including reallocating resources to the areas most in need.

"Clearing side roads and key footpaths must now be the priority so people can safely access essential services and go about their lives again.

"I appreciate the work the Council have already done in trying to manage this difficult situation and hope we can work together to find a solution."

More from Local News

Bin fires prompt call for public to dispose of batteries responsibly

Residents are being reminded not to place batteries or unwanted electrical items containing batteries in their household waste or recycling bins to help to prevent fires.
Knaresborough Mayor to open town's first padel venue

Knaresborough's first dedicated town centre padel venue will officially open on Friday with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor taking to the court.
New award launched to find Yorkshire's best pub

A new award recognising Yorkshire's best pub has been introduced as part of the 2026 Deliciously Yorkshire Taste Awards.
Vale of York services given go-ahead despite "rape of countryside" claim

Plans for a motorway service area (MSA) off the A1(M) in North Yorkshire have been approved despite a claim the scheme amounts to the "rape of the countryside".
Traffic to use new A59 Kex Gill route for first time tomorrow

Drivers travelling between Harrogate and Skipton will begin using part of the new A59 Kex Gill route from tomorrow (Wednesday)
Annual Tour de Aky set to hit £10,000 target

This year's Tour de Aky is on course to raise £10,000 for charity after another successful series of fundraising events.
Harrogate bus staff nominated for national award

Two Harrogate-based Transdev colleagues have been shortlisted for national honours at this year's RouteOne Awards.
Parking warning issued after Burnsall car park closes

Burnsall visitors are being urged to plan ahead after the closure of a major parking field left parking in the village extremely limited.
Spire Harrogate Clinic earns top housekeeping award

Spire Harrogate Clinic has been recognised for its high standards of cleanliness after achieving its first Gold CAP Award.
Otley music studio launches six-week daytime courses

A series of new daytime music courses is launching in Otley later this month, giving adults the chance to sing, play and meet new people.
New guide helps families find free and low-cost summer fun

Families across the Harrogate district are being encouraged to make the most of a new guide to free and low-cost activities during the seven-week summer holidays.
Much-loved Slingsby Gin becomes new Festivals' partner

Harrogate International Festivals has announced a new partnership with Slingsby Gin.
Princess Royal to become Great Yorkshire Show President

The Princess Royal will become President of the Great Yorkshire Show next year in a landmark moment for the event.
Concern over lack of consultation ahead of Lifeline cuts decision

Cuts to a 24/7 emergency helpline for elderly North Yorkshire residents have been pushed through without consulting users of the service, say critics.
Animal charity launches £2 million redevelopment appeal

An animal charity that supports vulnerable pets from Harrogate has launched a major public appeal to help fund a £2 million redevelopment of its facilities.
Sneak peek: New Otley play area starts to take shape

A brand new indoor and outdoor play attraction is beginning to take shape ahead of its opening in Otley.
Historic Harrogate pub named among the UK's best by The Telegraph

One of Harrogate's most historic pubs has been recognised as one of the best places in the UK to enjoy a pint.
Police appeal to find wanted Harrogate man

North Yorkshire Police is appealing for help to trace a wanted man from Harrogate.
Harrogate MP calls on new Prime Minister to overhaul 'broken' water industry

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon is calling on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to make reform of the water industry one of his first priorities in office.
Harrogate nursery children get messy for International Mud Day

Children at Partou nurseries across the country, including Woodlands Harrogate Day Nursery and Pre-school, have marked International Mud Day by rolling up their sleeves for a marathon session of messy, hands-on fun.