Debate steps up over future of Harrogate's famous Stray Act

Controversy over the future of Harrogate's famous Stray has stepped up as businesses back plans to extend the exacting laws governing its use.
The Stray. Montpellier.(NADV 1701093AM2)The Stray. Montpellier.(NADV 1701093AM2)
The Stray. Montpellier.(NADV 1701093AM2)

Key Yorkshire figures and politicians have already waded into the debate over extending the use of the 200 acre space, fiercely protected by strict laws. And as Government grants yet another temporary suspension of the powers surrounding its use for the Tour de Yorkshire, businesses say permanent change could bring a huge boost to the town.

“There is no option which allows for the current activity level to continue,” Mike Procter from the Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce, who led a focus group garnering business support.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Our town centre economy is very dependent on visitors, so occasional events which have an internationally high profile are good for Harrogate.”

The use of the 200-acre Stray, owned by the Duchy of Lancaster, is strictly regulated under the Harrogate Stray Act 1985.

These powers, governing the size and kind of events the land can be used for, are in place to protect the treasured landscape.

But, say some, they also restrict what can be done as it means only smaller events of less than 3.5 hectares can be held, and for a limited amount of time.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It was announced yesterday that Harrogate Borough Council (HBC) has been successful in its bid to temporarily suspend the Act so that the town can host the Tour de Yorkshire, along with spectator hubs and fan parks, on Saturday, April 29.

This is the second time the powers have been lifted - the first for the sprint finish of the Grand Depart in 2014 - and the move prompted a warning from Government that it cannot keep granting such time consuming and costly requests. As a result, the authority is consulting on amending the Act to allow different kinds of events and for longer periods, a move which has sparked much controversy.

The Stray Defence Association has argued that this would cause “untold damage”, while Harrogate Harrogate Civic Society has said it fears the impact it could have.

“The Stray should not be treated as a space that needs to have something happening on it,” chairman Henry Pankhurst has said.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

But the town’s MP Andrew Jones has backed the proposed changes, as has the man credited with bringing the Tour de France to Yorkshire, Sir Gary Verity of Welcome to Yorkshire, who said that the town’s hosting of the Yorkshire Grand Départ proved the Stray can cope with a major international event.

Now, Harrogate District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, in a survey of its members, has found that most, and in particular shops and restaurants, are in favour of the proposed changes but urged caution in its delivery.

“The chamber’s survey of its members indicates the majority are in favour but also that there is some misconception about the proposals,” said chamber chief executive Sandra Doherty. “Some members voiced opposition to year-round events, allowing the Stray to be used for housing, or taking up the whole Stray and preventing public access – none of which is being proposed.

“If larger events are permitted, the chamber would like to see careful management of any related road closures and parking.”

The consultation closes on February 6.