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.
In response, the leader of the Conservative-controlled authority, Councillor Car Les, said:
“I can confirm we have received this from Knaresborough Town Council and while disappointed to receive it, we will be very willing to have a meeting with them at the earliest opportunity to discuss this.”
Leeds Bradford Airport strikes suspended as fresh pay talks planned
Irving Weaver appointed Life President of Harrogate Town AFC
Farm near Ripon scoops national farming award
WATCH: Magical woodland trail to support Masham primary school
Fountains Abbey prepares to host two-day Christmas market
New society aims to revive Harrogate's spa heritage
Inherited jewellery: where do you start?
Man found dead at property on Franklin Road in Harrogate
Killinghall Village Hall goes greener with £27,000 improvement project
Driver caught at 131mph ordered to pay over £1,500 at Harrogate court
Knaresborough toilets upgraded after recent vandalism
Knaresborough Scarecrow Trail to return this half term
Yorkshire residents invited to apply for BBC's The Traitors
North Yorkshire recycling centres could face closure
Harrogate Town Football Club announces new ownership
Free Halloween potion trail to launch in Harrogate this half term
Yorkshire Water issues reminder ahead of plastic wet wipe ban
Hundreds set to light up Harrogate's Moonlight Glow Walk
Harrogate charity helps children explore disability through art
Skipton Road closed in both directions after car overturns
