We won’t be swamped by cheap homes

Harrogate Council’s district development committee has this week voted to push ahead with plans for a housing growth target of more than 5,000 new homes – 390 for each year throughout the area up to 2023-24.

Following on from its controversial consultation over sites for new homes in the rural parts of the district, the authority will now put forward proposals for sites in urban areas across Harrogate, Ripon and Knaresborough in September.

The Yorkshire Post revealed earlier this week that the district is suffering from a worrying lack of affordable accommodation, with average house prices up to 12 times the rate of average income.

But Coun Richard Cooper, cabinet member for planning, transport and economic development, said despite a renewed focus on providing affordable homes, the area will not be swamped.

“I want development to be as low as possible,” he said.

“We are going to do as much as we can to preserve the unique character of Harrogate, at the same time as addressing the high prices and shortage of affordable homes.

“We will make sure any new homes are built near sustainable areas and using the latest new environmental technology.”

Meanwhile, more than 150 villagers attended a public meeting this week on proposals to build nearly 1,000 homes in Sowerby, a village on the outskirts of Thirsk.

Plans for the contentious development are expected to be submitted towards the end of the year.