THE VICTORIAN ERA
Samuel Powell, the Duchy of Lancaster’s agent, met “many of the principal inhabitants” of Harrogate during the autumn of 1840, discussing ways in which the wells could be better protected, and means of draining and improving the Stray. Subsequently, he informed the Duchy of local support for a new Act.
The Duchy considered that Harrogate should have an Act which was far more comprehensive than the local movers proposed, and after a period of intense discussion, the Harrogate Improvement Bill contained powers not only to protect the wells and improve the Stray, but also powers to construct roads and footpaths, sewers and drains, to licence carriages, appoint constables, purchase or rent buildings, provide a market, and light the streets. The new Act was passed by Parliament on 10 May 1841 and the town was now prepared to meet the challenge of the Victorian era.
Image: West Park, c.1853