Harrogate & Knaresborough MP Phil Willis has hit out at local councils over their failure to grit pavements and roads outside Harrogate’s town centre.

“It is outrageous that many of my constituents, particularly elderly people, have felt trapped in their own homes over the Christmas and New Year period.

“There is little point in having clear paths in the town centre if you cannot get out of your own house.

“It is unbelievable that our Conservative controlled North Yorkshire County Council has given instructions that footpaths outside the town centre should not be gritted. It is these very footpaths that are the most dangerous and that are preventing people from getting out and about.

“I am also amazed that Harrogate Borough Council can spend nearly £1m on consultants over the last two years but will not provide the extra gritting that is so obviously needed."

ENDS