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Knaresborough councillors vote for 'no confidence' in North Yorkshire Council

Wednesday, 17 June 2026 11:57

Knaresborough Town Councillors Matt Walker and Hannah Gostlow.

Knaresborough Town Council has voted overwhelmingly to pass a motion of 'No Confidence' in North Yorkshire Council.

The motion, proposed by Cllr Walker and seconded by Cllr Gostlow, was backed by all but one councillor at a recent meeting.

The council said the decision reflects concerns about local government reorganisation and the impact it has had on services in the town.

Issues highlighted in the motion include the condition of Knaresborough House and Knaresborough Castle, the ongoing problems at Viaduct Terrace, the closure of the children’s paddling pool, the state of Waterside public toilets, and concerns over parking, congestion and tourism support.

Cllr Walker said:

"The fact that every councillor bar one voted in favour sends an incredibly powerful message to Northallerton: Knaresborough is standing together, and we have had enough.

"We were promised that local government reorganisation would improve services.

"Instead, it has lived up to none of its promises. North Yorkshire Council simply doesn't work.

"The influx of messages I received from residents ahead of this vote proves this isn't just a political issue—it's a community-wide crisis."

Cllr Gostlow added:

“When councillors, across parties, unite behind a common position, it reflects widespread concern about the current situation.

"We want to see constructive discussions begin on a local Devolution Deal that would enable Knaresborough Town Council to take on greater responsibility for local assets and services, with the resources needed to deliver for residents.

"We believe local decisions are often best made by those who know the town and its needs most closely.”

Following the vote, Knaresborough Town Council said it will formally submit the declaration of no confidence to North Yorkshire Council’s leadership, alongside a request for capital investment in the town and the start of local devolution discussions.

Your Harrogate has approached North Yorkshire Council for comment.

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