Shock business closure figures prompts plea by Harrogate MP to bring back 'hustle and bustle' to high street

Harrogate and Knaresborough’s MP is launching a new Save our High Streets plan after what he says are “shock” ONS figures for business closures in North Yorkshire.

Lib Dem MP Tom Gordon says the latest Office for National Statistics figures showing that North Yorkshire saw 1,400 businesses closing their doors in the first half of 2026 were simply “unacceptable”.

Overall, there has been a reduction in the number of local firms by 85 in the county, as the number of business closures overtakes the number of new businesses opening.

From the Harrogate MP’s point of view, what is also worrying is that North Yorkshire lost 15 arts, entertainment, and recreation venues between 2019 and 2024, a sector which is particularly important to Harrogate’s tourism offering.

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon says the latest ONS figures showing that North Yorkshire saw 1,400 businesses closing their doors in the first half of 2026 were simply “unacceptable”. (Picture contributed)

"We’re seeing an unacceptable rise in job losses and business difficulties, following decades of neglect and mismanagement by consecutive governments,” said Mr Gordon.

“Our high streets are dying but it’s not too late to save them.

"The Government must stop dragging its feet and implement the Liberal Democrats’ plan to bring back the hustle and bustle to our town centres and make them a safe place for everyone to enjoy.

“We also need North Yorkshire Council to step up their game and do more to support local businesses.”

Tom Gordon MP argues that high streets are essential for local employment as 7,540 local people are looking for a job, an increase of 300 from last year.

The number of young people out of a job has also reached 1,315, an annual increase of 115.

The Harrogate and Knaresborough MP has launched a new survey to better understand the challenges and opportunities for local businesses.

He is also supporting the Liberal Democrats’ national plans to support high street businesses.

This includes an emergency 5% VAT cut on hospitality, accommodation and attractions.

The plan also calls for an overhaul of the business rates system, replacing it with a Commercial Landowner Levy, scrapping the National Insurance Contribution (NIC) hike for employers and increasing local powers to tackle illicit vape shops.