Collaborative Vision and Community Infrastructure
For the past few years, Homes England, the government’s housing agency, has been actively crafting these plans in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence. Dubbed as “Clotherholme,” the ambitious scheme encompasses not only the conversion of the barracks into housing but also encompasses the creation of essential community infrastructure. This includes a brand-new primary school, expansive sports pitches, various retail outlets, dining establishments, and an envisaged 60-bed care home.
As the Harrogate Borough Council’s planning committee nears the end of its tenure before the council’s dissolution, one of its crucial remaining decisions pertains to determining the fate of the proposed development.
Council Deliberations and Positive Outlook
Scheduled for the upcoming Thursday afternoon in Harrogate, the councillors are poised to convene and deliberate on the matter. Notably, the plans have received a favourable recommendation for approval from Andy Hough, the case officer at Harrogate Borough Council, as outlined in his report.
The expansive Ripon Barracks site encompasses distinct sections: Deverell Barracks to the east, Claro Barracks to the west, and Laver Banks to the south.
Homes England envisions that the proposed development would accommodate around 3,000 residents, effectively augmenting Ripon’s population by a fifth. It’s worth noting, however, that this projection doesn’t account for the departure of military personnel who have been integral members of the local community for decades.
The timeline for this transformation is set to span until 2035, with a notable commitment that 30% of the homes will be designated as affordable housing, aiming to address a pressing need in the region.
Initially constructed as a convalescent camp to aid troops during World War I, the barracks hold a historical significance. Notably, the site provided shelter for numerous individuals, including the renowned wartime poet Wilfred Owen, who penned some of his iconic poems while stationed there.
Yet, the current planning application entails the unfortunate demolition of all historically significant structures, including one of the most well-preserved prefab sites from the World War II era. Historic England has expressed strong concerns regarding this demolition, though its retention has proven infeasible due to the presence of asbestos, an outcome deemed “extremely regrettable”.
Honouring Heritage and Engaging Collaboration
In a bid to acknowledge the site’s military heritage, Homes England has committed to collaborating with the Ripon Military Heritage Group in the evolution of these proposals.
For quite some time, concerned campaigners have consistently voiced apprehensions regarding the potential strain on local roads due to the proposed development. Advocates have specifically called for the inclusion of a relief road via Galphay Road to mitigate these concerns, but this suggestion was ultimately dismissed.
As things stand, access to the envisioned site would primarily occur through Clotherholme Road and Kirkby Road, providing entry points for future residents.
In a proactive move, Homes England conducted comprehensive traffic studies to anticipate the repercussions of the development on the local road network. Their findings indicated that the construction of the housing estate could lead to traffic congestion and delays at existing junctions. In response, proposed adjustments to the Low Skellgate, Coltsgate Hill, and Clock Tower junctions aim to alleviate these potential issues. Additionally, a new roundabout is slated to be established at the intersection of Kirkby Road and Chatham Road.
Enhancing Historical Space and Highway Network
In a report, it was noted, “The historic core of Ripon has presented challenges in integrating the highways and transportation impact of the proposed development within the confines of the existing highway layout. However, the current proposals hold the promise of positive enhancements to the highway network, particularly in the western vicinity of Ripon Market Place.”
As part of their commitment to community development, the applicants have agreed to contribute a substantial sum of £4,694,875 to North Yorkshire County Council. These funds are intended to support local primary and secondary schools, underscoring a dedication to the betterment of the region’s educational infrastructure.
