As we begin 2026, I would like to thank all Harrogate BID members for your continued support and engagement. January has already been a busy and productive month for the BID team, with key activities delivered, new initiatives underway, and several programmes launching to support Harrogate town centre and our local business community.
We were delighted with the strong turnout at our recent AGM, which provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on the past year, share key achievements, and outline our priorities for the months ahead. I would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to what was a positive and constructive event.
January also saw significant interest in Harrogate Self Care Week, with bookings opening and a number of sessions selling out in advance of the programme taking place in February. The response once again highlights Harrogate’s reputation as a destination for wellbeing and the strength of collaboration between local businesses and practitioners.
Alongside this, the BID team has continued to deliver on-the-ground activity to support the town centre, while planning an exciting programme of events, campaigns and initiatives for the year ahead. We remain focused on driving footfall, supporting businesses, and enhancing Harrogate as a vibrant place to live, work and visit.
If you have ideas or feedback on how the BID can continue to support you and your business, we would be very happy to hear from you. Please do get in touch with the team at info@harrogatebid.co.uk
Thank you once again for your ongoing support, and I look forward to working together throughout 2026.
Yours sincerely,
Simon Midgley
Harrogate BID Chair
Shopfront Match Funding Grant
Our Shopfront Match Funding Grant remains available to support BID members looking to improve the appearance and accessibility of their premises. The scheme helps part-fund enhancements such as signage, frontage improvements and external repairs, contributing to a more attractive and welcoming town centre.
If you are considering improvements to your premises, please contact the BID team at info@harrogatebid.co.uk (mailto:info@harrogatebid.co.uk) to discuss eligibility and next steps.
Harrogate BID AGM 2026 Round-Up
Thank you to all members and partners who attended our Annual General Meeting. The AGM provided an opportunity to reflect on the projects, campaigns and services delivered throughout 2025, as well as to share our priorities and plans for the year ahead.
We were pleased with the level of engagement on the evening and would like to thank members for their constructive feedback and continued support.
Harrogate Self Care Week
Harrogate Self-Care Week has seen fantastic uptake, with sessions filling quickly and strong interest across the full programme. We would like to thank our delivery partners, venues and practitioners for helping to showcase Harrogate’s wellbeing offer.
Due to demand, additional sessions have been added, with further updates shared via our website and social media channels.
Makers Market to Return in February
We are pleased to confirm the return of the Harrogate Makers Market, taking place on the third Sunday of every month, starting on Sunday, 15th February, on Cambridge Street.
The market will showcase a range of independent makers, producers and creatives, supporting local enterprise while helping to boost footfall and dwell time in the town centre.
Christmas Fayre Survey
We are keen to gather feedback on the recent Christmas Fayre to help inform future planning. BID members are encouraged to complete a short survey to help us understand what worked well and identify opportunities for improvement. Please submit before 13th February.
FUSION – Supporting Recruitment and Retention
We are pleased to help promote Fusion, a fully funded programme designed to support small businesses with recruiting, supporting and retaining young people.
Fusion is a practical three-month programme developed with employers, industry experts and Gen Z professionals. It helps businesses create inclusive, sustainable workplaces through workshops, peer-to-peer learning, tailored guidance and expert advice.
The programme includes:
A pre-start audit
Six collaborative workshops
Peer support and expert advisory input
A final Fusion Blueprint to embed long-term change
Workshops will take place at Rudding Park Hotel, Harrogate, with lunch provided. The programme is fully funded through support from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and the Department for Work and Pensions.
Chewing Gum Removal Programme
Our targeted chewing gum removal programme continues across key areas of the town centre. Delivered in collaboration with North Yorkshire Council using specialist equipment, this work supports our shared aim of maintaining a clean, welcoming and high-quality environment for businesses, residents and visitors.