Business groups and others in Harrogate have met to see how to develop a more sustainable future for the town.

Those who attended the meeting at Artizan Cafe included North Yorkshire Council, Zero Carbon Harrogate, Harrogate District Chamber of Commerce, Harrogate Convention Centre, Harrogate Flower Shows and Harrogate in Bloom.

The first meeting of 'Sustainable Harrogate', which was organised by Harrogate BID, involved highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of sustainability in Harrogate and linking these to the 17 key Sustainable Development Goals (SDA) adopted by organisations worldwide.

Matthew Chapman, Harrogate BID Manager, said: “Sustainability is becoming a more pressing matter everywhere in the world, but we want to do what we can to improve it in Harrogate.

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“It was a highly positive first meeting and we’ve already come up with some actions and next steps to take, so watch this space…

“Sustainability makes up a section of our ‘Voice & Vision’ objective, so it’s very important that we work on strategies and plans to achieve this.

“We believe that bringing expert groups such as this together will help to develop a plan of action for our town to become more sustainable and create new schemes and initiatives.”

Jemima Parker, Chair of the Zero Carbon Harrogate group, said they’re excited to be a part of this new project for the good of the town.

Jemima said: “Zero Carbon Harrogate are delighted to be working collaboratively with the BID to bring forward options to support a thriving local low carbon economy.

“For example, looking at how more electricity could be generated in the town to help cut bills for businesses and build energy resilience."

The group is set to meet on a quarterly basis to discuss plans and feedback any new ideas. The next will be held in the new year at a location set to be confirmed.

If you wish to join the next meeting, email the BID team on info@harrogatebid.co.uk