A £13.4million scheme to improve Harrogate's Station Parade is set to begin in the New Year.
NY Highways was appointed today (Tuesday 27th October) to deliver the Transforming Cities Fund project on behalf of North Yorkshire Council.
The scheme will improve access to Harrogate railway station for pedestrians, cyclists and bus passengers, supporting more environmentally friendly travel.
The pedestrian route beneath the One Arch railway bridge will also be renovated to create a safer and more attractive link to the town centre.
Work is expected to be completed in autumn 2028.
North Yorkshire Council said it will hold drop-in sessions and visit businesses directly before and during construction to explain the work and discuss concerns.
The council’s executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Malcolm Taylor, said:
“After almost six years in the pipeline, we welcome the start of this scheme which represents a significant investment in Harrogate town centre.
“Before and throughout the programme, we will be talking with local businesses to explain what is happening and listen to them.
“We understand that any scheme of this scale can raise questions, particularly around how it will affect trade, so those ongoing discussions are important.
“We will try and reduce disruption wherever possible, so we are starting the work in the New Year to avoid impacting businesses over the busy trading period.”
He added:
“Local businesses are at the heart of Harrogate, and this project is to ultimately drive economic prosperity through improved access to employment and future investment, so we want to take businesses with us every step of the way.”
The project has received support from the owners of The Exchange and the operator of Victoria Shopping Centre.
Harry Braid, of Rushbond PLC, which owns The Exchange, said:
“As the new owners of The Exchange, we are delighted to see the ambitions of North Yorkshire Council, and the provision of substantial capital to improve the arrival experience and connections between the railway station and Harrogate town centre.”
Gary Millar, of Sheet Anchor Evolve, which operates Victoria Shopping Centre, said:
“We mark the gateway to Harrogate’s established retail centre, and we support this upgrade at a point that aligns perfectly with our own ambitions.
“We are particularly excited about plans for Station Square and look forward to the variety of events it will host in the coming years.
“Refreshing and diversifying the shopping experience by investing in our public realm is key to driving more footfall and supporting Harrogate’s fantastic retail offer.”
The project is predominantly funded through the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund, a programme of transport infrastructure investment covering North Yorkshire and the Leeds City Region.
West Yorkshire Combined Authority is contributing £11million, with a further £1.35million from York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and £1.05million from North Yorkshire Council.
A total of £38million was allocated to deliver Transforming Cities Fund schemes in Harrogate, Selby and Skipton.
New project to help people build confidence and prepare for work
Harrogate nurse writes children's book inspired by her grandad's stories
Ground investigations to begin in Knaresborough to help reduce river pollution
Knaresborough Tractor Run announces date for 10th anniversary event
Ripley Castle to host free Christmas market with independent stalls
Communities praised for response to severe weekend storms
Harrogate farming conference wins regional award
Harrogate district village shares £1million on Postcode Lottery
Free art workshops to celebrate Harrogate's heritage in Valley Gardens
Work starts on £20m care village in Harrogate
Glow Together walk to raise funds for Martin House
Tesco Harrogate shoppers urged to donate gifts for local people
Harrogate MP joins clean water campaigners on River Nidd
Roadworks get underway on Royal Parade in Harrogate
Storm leaves fallen trees and debris at RHS Harlow Carr
1,100-home Harrogate development prompts 'under siege' warning from councillor
Protesters brave wet weather to call for closure of Menwith Hill
Harrogate Railway confirms no fireworks display this year
Harrogate mum launches baby-friendly yoga and sensory classes
Harrogate Mayor's Christmas concert to be made more accessible with BSL interpreter
