Gateway suffers survey setback as majority feel ‘negative’ about £10.9m plans

The Harrogate Gateway project has suffered a significant setback after the results of a latest survey revealed the majority of respondents feel ‘negative’ about the £10.9m plans.

With a final decision on the project fast-approaching, the survey results show 55% feel ‘negative’ about the scheme, while 39% feel ‘positive’.

Just over 5% feel ‘neutral’ and less than 1% said they didn’t know.

This was out of 1,320 responses to the survey held in October and November.

It marks the first time a majority have been against the plans which have already been the subject of previous surveys and undergone design changes in the face of some opposition.

The project aims to transform Harrogate town centre with better access for pedestrians and cyclists, with key proposals including a part-time pedestrianisation of James Street and reducing Station Parade to one-lane traffic to make way for a cycle lane.

North Yorkshire County Council – which is leading on the plans – said the “exciting changes” would benefit “residents, businesses and visitors alike”.

However, there are growing concerns over the impacts on traffic and businesses in the town centre, with one respondent to the latest survey saying the scheme would cause “chaos” on the roads.

There is also a threat of legal action from businesses opposed to the scheme.

Meanwhile, those who support the project say it will encourage sustainable travel and “make a statement” that Harrogate is a forward-thinking town.

Councillor Don Mackenzie, executive member for access, said the basis of the project was made on the Harrogate Congestion Study – a major survey held in 2019 when thousands of residents signalled their support for a greener town centre.

Councillor Mackenzie said: “The clear message sent to us by members of the public then was that they wanted more walking and cycling infrastructure, greater support and use of public transport, and encouragement to leave cars at home when making short journeys.

“They did not want money spent on new highways like a relief road.

“It was made clear that the best way to combat congestion was to change travel behaviour, to walk, cycle and use public transport more often.

“At a time when climate change is a global priority, these proposals will play a part in improving the environment in the town centre by encouraging less use of motor vehicles.”

As well as changes to James Street and Station Parade, the plans also include improvements to Station Square and the One Arch underpass with the aim of providing better links to the train and bus station.

Designs are now being finalised ahead of final recommendations being presented to the county council’s executive in the New Year.

The project is being funded by the government’s Transforming Cities Fund, with a deadline for the money to be spent by early 2023.

If approved, construction could start in spring 2022.