Property Interview: The growth of a Golden Triangle town will attract a new demographic, says LCF specialist

HARROGATE is looking to expand its demographic appeal, says Russell Burnett, an associate at LCF Barber Titleys, part of LCF Law, who specialises in commercial leases and portfolio management.

As part of the Golden Triangle, Harrogate and the surrounding area has attracted affluent crowds of professionals, often commuting to Leeds or York for work.

Now, with new developments in the town, including the redevelopment of the former Beales department store on Station Parade, a different kind of people will be eyeing Harrogate with interest.

“The Everyman cinema development at the former Beales department store already looks fantastic, and it has attracted big name brands, such as Yo Sushi and quality niche retailers. It will also tidy up that area of Harrogate which is a main artery into the town,” said Mr Burnett.

“There is a younger generation appeal to the town and developments like this one will keep those in Harrogate or those that come here regularly very happy. From a business point of view it creates a buzz around the town.”

Despite this, Harrogate is not looking to compete with bigger retail rivals in York and Leeds, said Mr Burnett.

“Harrogate is a niche offering, people come for Betty’s and for the feel of the town. It’s a different offering than Leeds and it’s good to see Leeds being boosted by developments such as Victoria Gate and that will boost the surrounding region – we’re not really competing.

“This is balanced against the fact that Harrogate is a special offering, and it has a higher density of older people, if there is too much new development you start to lose that, and that’s one of the appeals of moving here.”

Having said that, Harrogate’s niche retail offering is growing, he said. “From speaking to retail clients, I know they are very keen to open other stores as well, although with Everyman coming in they are going to have to adapt to the new environment.Beales Harrogate

“It’s exactly what Harrogate needs to attract the right brands.”

Even developments such as the Harrogate Spa Tennis Club move, which LCF were involved in is diversifying the town.”

Mr Burnett said: “Involvement in spa tennis centre was something we were really proud of, money coming in from national body – exactly the sort of thing town needs to attract and encourage younger people to stay.”

Although Harrogate is known more for its picturesque buildings, The Stray and Harrogate Baths, as well as a growing food and drink offering, but Mr Burnett says there is a “realistic” approach from the council towards business growth.

“Harrogate is quite well known for a start up businesses,” he said, “office space isn’t as good here as elsewhere, as a lot of developers turn spaces into residential developments do to the value they can get from it.”

Though with the old council buildings being turned into offices, there is room for more office developments in Harrogate.

“Transport is a key issue, he said, “there have been moves to upgrade the station but we’re stuck with a train line that needs upgrading.”

“But in Harrogate generally we we are ticking the right boxes, hitting nails on heads and appealing to a different demographic as we grow.”

 

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