Protests planned over centre traffic ban

A demonstration is planned outside Harrogate Library on Wednesday where a presentation of the £750,000 scheme – to semi-pedestrianise a section of the A61 running through Harrogate town centre and divert traffic around it – is taking place.

A drive-through protest, where residents and businesses against the plans will drive the suggested new route along Cheltenham Mount, Bower Road and East Parade, is set to take place on Friday.

More than 2,000 people have already signed a petition against the proposals.

Sue Kramer, who runs Crown Jewellers on Commercial Street, and is helping to co-ordinate the protest against the plans from furious residents and traders, said: “We will be protesting outside Wednesday’s exhibition to increase awareness of the plans and we have a commitment from a large number of people to be there.

“The proposals will heap misery on Harrogate’s congested routes, especially Skipton Road which lorries will be encouraged to use under the plans.

“This is basically to highlight the traffic chaos.”

North Yorkshire County Council held another exhibition at the Victoria Shopping Centre over the weekend.

Coun Gareth Dadd, executive member for highways, said: “These exhibitions will ensure we capture the views of residents and traders in the centre of Harrogate.

“We are also determined to gather the opinions of a group of people who are vital to the economic prosperity of Harrogate.”

Public consultation on the county council’s plans continues until May 16.

For more information, go to www.northyorks.gov.uk/harrogatetransport.