HARROGATE, UK — One of Harrogate’s most prominent historic landmarks is set for a major transformation after securing a landmark funding award from the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire’s Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund.
The investment will breathe new life into the Grade II listed West Park United Reformed Church, reimagining the architectural gem as a dynamic heritage destination, community event space, and official visitor information centre.
Led by the Harrogate Heritage and Community Development Project (HHCDP) — operating as the West Park Centre — the initiative preserves the historic fabric of the townscape while ensuring the building remains a permanent home for its regular church members.
Revitalising a Landmark
Designed by Lockwood & Mawson, the celebrated Yorkshire architects behind Bradford City Hall and Saltaire’s Salts Mill, the West Park United Reformed Church is an architectural asset of real significance.
Through this new funding, church members and the HHCDP are repurposing the space to host The Harrogate Story — an evolving exhibition exploring the history of the famous spa town. The centre will also serve as a bustling community hub and a welcoming first stop for tourists.
The project builds on 18 months of intensive, volunteer-led development. Launched in 2024, the initiative has grown a dedicated team of 30 volunteers, drawing 1,600 exhibition visitors and over 1,000 event attendees last year alone. The newly secured funding is expected to accelerate this growth, driving town-centre footfall and securing the building’s long-term future.
What the Funding Will Deliver
The high-street investment will directly support a wide-ranging modernisation and community programme, including:
- Official Visitor Information Centre staffed by knowledgeable local volunteers.
- Community Art Projects and digital heritage displays.
- An Upgraded Event Space available for public and corporate hire.
- Refurbished Café Area for residents and tourists.
- An Immersive Viewing Room built within the church’s iconic spire.
A Vision for the Community
Trustees at HHCDP commented:
This successful bid is a tribute to the hard work of volunteers, who have a vision for something genuinely ambitious and inclusive. We are especially pleased that the funding panel recognised our vision to create a special place, one that welcomes our community and offers visitors a truly memorable introduction to Harrogate.
Stuart Holland, Project Lead, added:
I am delighted that the funding panel has recognised the transformative potential of West Park Centre. This project will create a community and event venue of choice for local families, and a fantastic first impression for visitors to our town, enhancing the town centre offer and the wider prosperity of Harrogate. We look forward to welcoming people.
Endorsed by the Mayor
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:
Our high streets are where our communities come together. That’s why I’m backing creative ideas from the people who know their area best with my High Streets Fund.
By supporting The Harrogate Story, we are helping to create a vibrant town centre hub providing visitor information, celebrating the spa town’s heritage through interactive displays, and offering flexible space for community events and exhibitions. This is one of 65 projects we’ve supported across York and North Yorkshire helping to transform our high streets into vibrant destinations.
Visitor Information
The West Park Centre and The Harrogate Story are entirely run by volunteers.
- Current Opening Times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Website: To check opening times, enquire about room hire, or find volunteering opportunities, visit www.westparkcentre.org.uk.
