Public could be given say on proposals to beat ‘worst’ congestion

COUNCILLORS WILL decide next week whether to seek public feedback for their proposals to tackle tailbacks in Harrogate and Knaresborough.

One solution proposed could include building an inner relief road.

Congestion in the two neighbouring towns is worse than anywhere else within the North Yorkshire County Council area.

However, it could get even worse in the future.

Nearly 12,000 new homes are expected to be built in the area by 2035 when the number of road journeys is forecast to peak at more than 27,000 a day – almost 5,700 more than are made each day now.

Following an independent study commissioned by the county council, two packages of options to manage the congestion have been identified.

One of the options includes more pedestrian areas in central Harrogate and a congestion or low-emission zone.

Speed and weight limits and developments in public transport, cycling and walking infrastructure are also suggested.

The second suite of options involves similar measures, plus an inner relief road which would include creating a bypass for Killinghall.

Coun Don Mackenzie, the county council’s executive member for access, said: “It should be stressed that we are at an early stage of what will be a long process.

“No decision has been taken on any option or package in the report.”

At a meeting on Tuesday next week, the council’s executive body will decide whether to consult the public on its proposals. If approved, a 10-week consultation could begin in late February.