A major transport investment in Harrogate town centre has moved forward after councillors approved a construction contract and secured the final funding agreements needed for work to begin.
The £14.3 million scheme, supported through the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund, focuses on modernising the public realm around Harrogate Station and strengthening links to key employment and education sites. Funding has been arranged with both the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and the York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
NY Highways, a commercial highways provider established in 2021, has been confirmed as the contractor. The programme includes upgrades to Station Parade, One Arch and Station Square, with plans for new paving, a southbound cycle lane, improved traffic signals and better bus access. Additional signal improvements are set for the A61 at junctions along King’s Road, Ripon Road, and Cheltenham Parade. Cycle parking at Harrogate Railway Station will also be enhanced.
Executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Malcolm Taylor, said: “The scheme has been in the making for around five years, with several rounds of consultation and engagement to produce the final designs. We have maintained our commitment to delivering the scheme, which will be key in promoting sustainable travel and public transport options. The town centre will become more visibly appealing, ultimately driving economic prosperity through improved access to employment and future investment.”
Construction is scheduled to begin in the New Year, with completion expected in autumn 2027. The project forms part of a wider £38 million regional investment programme covering Harrogate, Selby, and Skipton, where work is already underway.
