This Friday (27 November), Harrogate Borough Council will be launching a survey asking for residents’ views on the banking services available in Knaresborough.

The borough council is carrying out the survey to fully understand what facilities the Knaresborough community would like to see in the town as well how they use banking services.

The outcome of the consultation will allow the council to have further discussion with community leaders and banking providers.

Councillor Graham Swift, Harrogate Borough Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for resources, enterprise and economic development, said:

“We’re aware that the last remaining bank in Knaresborough is due to close in the coming months, leaving no banking facilities in the town.

“Sadly, we can’t stop them doing so and we can’t promise anything in the future, but what we can do is put pressure on banking providers and show them that there is a need in the town. Therefore, it is essential that local residents share their views. I thank residents in advance for taking the time to do so.”

Councillor Ed Darling, Knaresborough Castle ward member who raised his concerns to the borough council earlier in the year, said:

“When the last branch closes it will leave a town with a population of more than 15,000 people without a bank. We want people to shop local, and we need the services and facilities for them to be able to do that. I’d like to thank the borough council for pursuing with this matter and encourage Knaresborough residents to share their views.”

The consultation will be available from Friday 27th November at: www.harrogate.gov.uk/haveyoursay until Thursday 7th January.

The borough council is committed to investing in Knaresborough and is about to start the redevelopment of four properties acquired on the high street last year. This follows a £500,000 transformation of Conyngham Hall business centre that has recently been completed.

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