Recently, Alexander Kay, a senior transport planning officer for the council, who has previously worked with a cycling and walking charity called Sustrans, presented a list of important cycling projects in Harrogate and Knaresborough.
However, the government has turned down funding requests for new bike paths on Knaresborough Road and Victoria Avenue due to the council’s past performance in completing such projects. Other proposed schemes have faced criticism and resistance.
Critics, including the Harrogate District Cycle Action (HDCA), have accused the council of neglecting cycling infrastructure for nearly a decade. Some contentious projects, like the Otley Road cycle lane and the cancellation of a Low Traffic Neighbourhood on Beech Grove, have drawn widespread disapproval.
Additionally, a major active travel initiative, the £11.2 million Harrogate Station Gateway, faced legal challenges and has now been significantly reduced in scope after objections from local businesses.
During a meeting of Harrogate and Knaresborough councilors, Liberal Democrat Councillor Matt Walker expressed dissatisfaction with the state of cycling infrastructure, highlighting issues like traffic congestion, potholes, and unreliable public transport. He emphasized the need for the council to improve active travel options to reduce dependence on cars.
Councillor Arnold Warneken from the Greens echoed these sentiments, stating that the concerns of cyclists in Harrogate and Knaresborough were not being taken seriously. Despite surveys showing public support for improving walking and cycling infrastructure, the council has faced criticism for its handling of active travel schemes.
The HDCA voiced frustration, accusing the council of abandoning active travel initiatives. Similarly, Lib Dem Councillor Philip Broadbank expressed frustration over the lack of progress despite extensive discussions and plans.
However, Councillor John Mann from the Conservative party defended the council’s efforts, citing the installation of cycle lanes, 20mph zones, and school streets in his constituency. He acknowledged challenges in financing and rising construction costs but emphasized ongoing progress with active travel projects.
The failure to develop substantial cycling infrastructure in Harrogate has raised questions about the legacy of major cycling events like the UCI Road World Championships in 2019 and the Tour de France in 2014. Concerns have been raised about the impact on daily commuters and leisure cyclists.
Additionally, criticisms have been directed at proposed schemes that offer little benefit to active travel, such as narrow cycle lanes placed against the flow of traffic, which have been labeled unsafe and ineffective by cycling advocacy groups like the HDCA.
