Changing Places - Past And Present Connections Harrogate

Question 1

What are connections?

Answer 1

Connections between places in the past shape their character in the present
Eg) for centuries London and New York have been connected to each other and other major cities through sea trade routes - connections have helped them become more wealthy, attract more people and be more closely linked to other cultures
New connections made in the present can affect character. Eg) London and New York new connections strengthen character as world cities - now more closely connected through finance and banking because of internet and faster air travel

Question 2

What was Harrogate’s original growth due to?

Answer 2

Endogenous factors eg) its spa waters. In the Georgian era it became known as the ‘English Spa’
In 17th and 18th centuries its waters were a popular health treatment and the influx of wealthy but poorly visitors contributed significantly to the wealth of the town.

Question 3

How did Harrogate’s connections grow in the past?

Answer 3

Population growth most significantly after the arrival of the railway which improved its transport infrastructure.
Enabled Harrogate to become more connected to other places in Britain and as a result tourists and day trippers began to visit in greater numbers.
Attractions included: Valley gardens, the Pump Rooms, the Turkish Baths, the Old Swan Hotel and the Great Yorkshire Show, annual events again widening connections to the rest of the country

Question 4

How did Harrogate widen its connections more in the 20th century?

Answer 4

Developing conference functions, holding national events eg) party political conferences and international events eg) 1982 Eurovision Song Contest.
Also increased its connections with national chains eg) ‘Everyman Cinema’ and ‘The Ivy’. However has been criticised for becoming a clone town because of the increase in national chains and there are signs of decline in Harrogate’s town centre with local, independent shops and restaurants being forced to close.

Question 5

How has Harrogate widened its connections more recently?

Answer 5

In recent years, Harrogate Borough Council and “Visit Harrogate” have increased connections with Europe and have developed links with different groups of people such as cyclists.
They are beginning to re-brand the town with a particular focus on outdoor events such as the Tour de France, the Tour de Yorkshire and the UCI championships