Boosting Transportation and Placemaking in the Public Sector.

North Yorkshire Council is on the cusp of a transformative change, with almost £50 million being funnelled into revitalising public spaces in towns across the county. The funding for this ambitious undertaking is sourced from the Transforming Cities Fund, with a staggering £44.6 million earmarked for a series of enhancements in Selby, Harrogate, and Skipton. A joint effort between the Department for Transport and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the Transforming Cities Fund aims to provide communities with an appealing and accessible alternative to car journeys.

At the core of this endeavour lie three key objectives:

• Providing a more accessible, affordable, and attractive transport option
• Connecting communities to economic and education opportunities
• Making communities happier and healthier for the future

The latest project to be unveiled to the public is the £11 million initiative in Harrogate, which will usher in public space improvements and enhancements to transport links within the town. This includes the addition of cycle parking near the bus and railway stations, promoting cleaner modes of transport for residents. Furthermore, the development will focus on making the town centre more alluring to visitors and residents alike.

By enhancing these spaces and connections, individuals will enjoy improved access to retail outlets, businesses, healthcare facilities, housing, and job opportunities.

The development phase is currently seeking feedback on the Traffic Regulation Order, a crucial step in the statutory process that mandates official approval from the Department for Transport and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority before work can commence towards the end of the year.

Cllr Keane Duncan, Executive Member for Highways and Transport, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating:

“We have carefully considered public feedback and collaborated extensively with local councillors from all parties to refine the Gateway Plan.

“In response to this feedback, adjustments have been made to the original scheme, ensuring that Station Parade remains accessible with two lanes of traffic and James Street remains unaffected by pedestrianisation.

“This proposal offers a feasible plan that will boast significant benefits for all users of transport: motorists, cyclists, public transport passengers, and pedestrians alike.

“The overarching goal of the scheme is to introduce top-tier enhancements to public spaces, thereby revitalising this pivotal area of the town centre…”

The projects in Selby and Skipton are set to receive £25.4 million and £7.2 million respectively, catering to a diverse range of improvements. These include better facilities at public transport hubs, upgraded active transport links to urban spaces, development of new public spaces, and establishing connections to educational institutions.

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