Listed status awarded to historic spa town site

The Sun Pavilion and Colonnade in Valley Gardens, Harrogate has been given Grade II listed status to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Six historic sites have been listed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) on Historic England’s advice, in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee.

The Sun Pavilion and Colonnade were constructed in 1933 to designs by Leonard Clarke, the borough surveyor, as part of a spa development scheme intended to be one of the finest in Europe.

The Pavilion was designed as a place to take refreshment and rest after taking exercise or after taking the spa waters in the town centre.

After a period of decline in the 1980s, the site was restored following a campaign led by local citizen Anne Smith and supported by celebrities including author James Herriot.

Councillor Richard Cooper, leader of Harrogate Borough Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that the Sun Pavilion and Colonnade in Valley Gardens is one of only six places that have been given listed status, in celebration of Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

“Valley Gardens is one of many jewels in the crown of our marvellous town and district, and for the Sun Pavilion and Colonnade to be recognised in this way is such an honour.”

The Sun Pavilion and Colonnade is a popular venue for events, most notably weddings. The Colonnade also hosts a regular artisan market, following a partnership between the borough council and Little Bird Made.

Nigel Huddleston, Heritage Minister, added: “These historic sites provide a fantastic opportunity to reflect on how much life in the UK has changed during Her Majesty the Queen’s 70-year reign.

“Listing them as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations is a fitting way to pay tribute to the longevity of her service.”