The Harrogate and Knaresborough Area Constituency Planning Committee of East Riding of Yorkshire Council met on Tuesday, 25 June 2024, to discuss two significant planning applications. The committee approved the installation of bollards and planters at Crescent Gardens, Harrogate, and granted a change of use for a property at 22 Ashgarth Court, Harrogate, to become a children's residential home.

Crescent Gardens Bollards and Planters

The committee reviewed the application for the installation of bollards and planters at Crescent Gardens to prevent vehicular traffic and enhance pedestrian access. The proposal includes matching the new block paving with the existing paving at the front of Crescent Gardens and linking it to the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Gardens. The recommendation was to approve the application with conditions, including an additional condition related to fencing.

Rebecca Oliver from the Duchy Residents Association raised concerns about the loss of car parking spaces and the potential for restricted pedestrian access in the future. Councillor Wendes questioned the necessity of the stopping up order and its implications for public access. The committee clarified that the planning decision was separate from the stopping up order, which would be subject to approval by the Secretary of State.

Hamish Robertshaw, representing the applicant, Impala Estates, assured the committee that pedestrian and cycle access would be maintained and highlighted the benefits of the development, including improved visual amenity and enhanced public realm. The committee approved the application by a vote of five to one.

For more details, refer to the application document.

Children's Residential Home at 22 Ashgarth Court

The committee also considered an application to change the use of 22 Ashgarth Court from a residential dwelling to a children's residential home. The proposal aimed to provide care for up to three children with at least two professional carers on-site at all times.

Richard Bannister, representing local residents, objected to the application, citing concerns about the suitability of the property, its location, and the potential impact on the local community. Councillor John Mann echoed these concerns, highlighting the property's small room sizes and lack of local amenities.

Julian McKay, the applicant, addressed the committee, emphasizing his commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable children. He clarified the staffing arrangements and assured the committee that the property would meet all necessary standards.

The committee debated the planning considerations, including the impact on residential amenity and the suitability of the property for its proposed use. Despite concerns about the property's size and location, the committee approved the application, with one abstention, on the grounds that the change of use would not have a demonstrably harmful impact on the local community.

For more details, refer to the application document.

Additional Information

For the full agenda and reports, please refer to the agenda frontsheet and the public reports pack.