Tesco makes 'difficult decision' to scrap Harrogate superstore plans

The planned Tesco Superstore at New Park in Harrogate will no longer go ahead.

On the morning of Wednesday 19th October, Tesco announced that it will not proceed with the Harrogate superstore, after almost a decade of applications and delays.

The Tesco Objectors Group has campaigned against the Tesco Superstore at New Park, having undertaken extensive research and then drawn up a list of ten reasons for saying NO to Tesco.

The campaign has been led by Brian Dunsby, former chief executive of Harrogate Chamber, county councillor David Simister, and Bob Jones, business consultant and Killinghall resident.

Brian said: “This is the news we have been campaigning for over many years and it’s a relief to finally have confirmation from Tesco that the store will not be built.

“Now we need to consider and lobby for what Harrogate really needs at New Park - such as an extension to Ripon Way Business Park creating local employment and space for growing businesses, affordable housing at the northern end nearer the Skipton Road, plus a park and ride site and coach parking on the upper level nearest to the Ripon Road.

“The shortage of development land near the Town Centre makes it imperative that the New Park site is developed on a multi-purpose basis for small businesses and affordable housing for local employees in order to meet the needs of the local economy. It should not be used for any other superstore or for up-market housing.”

Sandra Doherty, the new CEO of Harrogate District Chamber, added: “In some ways it is disappointing that Tesco have decided not to proceed with their planned store at New Park. But for the most part I would see this as an opportunity to research the best use of this valuable site.

“This could have an impact on many missing elements of the Harrogate District Plan bringing not just jobs but hopefully a coach park which would see a big improvement to the accessibility for day visitors. This is such a large site that affordable housing and small business units could also form part of a cohesive plan.”

Matt Davis, Tesco CEO UK, also commented: “Following a detailed review we have taken the very difficult decision not to proceed with our planned Harrogate superstore. This decision was not taken lightly and we realise that many people locally will be disappointed.

“We are grateful for the support that has been shown for our plans over the years and our priority now will be to ensure that the site is sold so that it can play a positive part in Harrogate’s future developments.”

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