Leeds construction firm to deliver new Harrogate ‘community hub’

A Leeds construction company has been appointed to deliver ‘major’ development plans to build a new cafe in North Yorkshire.

Castlehouse Construction has secured the contract with charity Horticap to deliver the two-storey cafe at its Harrogate site.

The charity, which is based at Bluecoat Wood Nurseries on Otley Road, provides horticulture, allied crafts and rural skills training for adults with learning and other disabilities.

Comprising 2,000 sq ft, the new cafe will also feature a shop and is scheduled to be completed this summer.

Andy Lyon, contracts manager at Castlehouse Construction, commented: “Being a part of this exciting development for Horticap is an honour.

“Horticap provides so much support for the students and their families and this new extension will only be a positive influence to the work they currently do. I look forward to seeing the students using the facilities once open.”

The project was funded through a legacy donation left to the charity by the parent of a former student. After visiting Horticap with her son Peter in late 1994, Marjorie Hopkins bequeathed a gift to the charity in her will.

Steve Scarre, chairman of Horticap, added: “Peter was a fabulous student, a natty dresser who always looked smart. He had a great sense of humour and was known for telling lots of jokes. He loved the banter, work and friendships he made at Horticap.

“Gifts left in wills are vital to charities and it is very humbling to receive this legacy and fulfil Marjorie’s final wishes. We are delighted to be able to put the funds to good use in developing our new community café and hub, as well as space for our students to gain new experiences.

“It is our ambition to make Horticap even more of a community hub and explore new ways of showcasing the great work the students do.”

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