Richard park proposes to convert the currently vacant Cheltenham Crescent site, opposite Le Bistrot Pierre in Harrogate’s town centre, into a new micropub serving a wide range of local and international real and craft ales.
The application is currently awaiting approval from Harrogate Borough Council. If successful Richard hopes that the micropub will bring new visitors and residents back into the town centre and bring the community closer together.
He said: “A micro pub is not your typical pub. It is a small premise that specialises in selling craft and artisan real ales. It is an independent business model that has sprung up relatively recently, mainly in Southern England.
“Unlike the usual town centre pub, there are no shots, no cheap alcohol deals, no hot food, no tvs, no loud music, no mass produced style beers, no gambling machines, no late openings, and no anti-social behaviour.
“The focus is on sourcing and selling fine artisan ales (and some craft gin, craft whisky and wine) in a welcoming, community atmosphere.
“I believe bringing an empty shop back into use is part of Harrogate Borough Council’s planning policy. I also believe my proposal fits in well with Harrogate Borough Council’s aim of provide a diverse, high quality, town centre, for both tourists and locals alike.”
He continued: “Elsewhere in the country, micro pubs have been celebrated for bringing people back into town centres to socialise, attracting a well behaved crowd and those who are looking for quality over quantity, interesting produce, and a nice environment in which to relax.
“My aim is to create such an environment, and to champion craft ales from local producers.
“I am a strong believer that more higher quality offerings will attract more people to the town, both to live and to socialise, and increase the overall attractiveness of the town.”
Richard hopes that the new micropub will complement Harrogate’s social activity and environment.