Harrogate Borough Council

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16 September 2009 -   On Monday, 15 September 2008, over 100 people from Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale attended the launch of a 'new look' to the Old Workhouse in Pateley Bridge, which is set to become the visitor, cultural and art hub for the whole Dale.

 

These buildings started life as the town's workhouse, then they became the works depot for Harrogate Borough Council, and then the Nidderdale Museum and King Street workshops.  Now, thanks to a number of investments and a growing partnership between Harrogate Borough Council, Nidderdale Plus Yorkshire Forward, the council's workshop tenants and Nidderdale Museum, the Old Workhouse is flourishing.

 

The launch event unveiled the new modern branding, promotional literature and interpretation boards detailing the site's history  all brought together with a vibrant new look.

 

Councillor Les Ellington, Harrogate Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Rural Affairs, who officiated at the event as Mayor of Pateley Bridge, says it was targeted at local people so that they understand what is on their doorstep.  He said:  "The Old Workhouse in King Street is well placed for visitors having a lovely day out in the Dales and we want local people to spread the message that there is more to Pateley Bridge than the High Street and beautiful countryside.  Pateley Bridge is a growing visitor destination but local people will benefit too, not only from the economic improvement but also because they can use the community office to access a number of public services without having to drive or take a bus."

 

This joint approach is one that has seen the development of the former workhouse as an employment space, cultural centre and access to services hub.  Drawing in funding from Yorkshire Forward and Europe, Harrogate Borough Council seconded staff into the local regeneration partnership, offered free accommodation and is funding a programme of internal and external improvements to the premises.

 

Alwin Knowles, Chair of the regeneration partnership, Nidderdale Plus, added: "The partnership has also established a community office offering access to services from a wide range of public and voluntary sector groups," added Mrs Knowles.  "We have created studios and workshops for those with artistic and cultural skills, including a small art gallery.   All this, together with the Nidderdale Museum, has reinforced King Street as a tourism destination and supported craft business."

 

NOTE TO EDITORS:  Nidderdale Plus is a voluntary organisation which provides a focus for social and economic regeneration across a wide area including Masham, Nidderdale and the Washburn Valley.  Membership is free to anyone living, working or with a commercial or business interest in the area. 

 

Yorkshire Forward, Harrogate Borough Council and the N+Arts Development Project have primarily funded the development.