Planners give nod to transform former council HQ

Plans to transform Harrogate Borough Council’s former headquarters have taken a major step forward after planners gave the green light for a two-storey extension and rooftop restaurant.

Office space and a gym also form part of the scheme at Crescent Gardens, which has been empty since 2017 after being vacated by the council when it moved into its new Knapping Mount headquarters.

The plans have been given the go-ahead despite some local residents raising concerns about the roof terrace, with Historic England saying it should not exceed one storey.

There were also concerns raised about the possibility of the venue being turned into a bar or nightclub in the future if the restaurant failed but council officers said licensing restrictions would be put on the building’s use and extra screening would be installed on the rooftop terrace.

Developer Impala Estates say the scheme would bring “significant benefits” to the town.