Plans for new footpaths and signposts on the Conyngham Hall grounds in Knaresborough have been approved by Harrogate Borough Council's planning committee.

A retrospective planning application was put before the committee this week to allow councillors to vote on the works done on the popular walking spot.

The works included the resurfacing of existing footpaths as well as the construction of a new footpath on the banks of the River Nidd. Timber steps were also put into a steep section of Collins Banks.

These renovations were done alongside local environmental groups and the parks department.

A retrospective application means most of the works have already been completed. They were carried out throughout last year using government funding from the Pocket Park Grant Funding. The total cost has been £27,000.

The application was approved with 10 councillors voting for and two abstaining.

However, one Liberal Democrat councillor and a member of the public raised their concerns during the meeting.

Both said the size of the stones was too large. The member of the public added that the new footpath had created muddy and flooded surfaces.

Read more:

• Vandals thought to be responsible for damage to memorial tree.


• Plans for 94 flats in Harrogate refused.

The council's parks department added that further works are planned to "top up" some of the current works to improve the walkways.