Big expansion for famous tea room

Betty's says the expansion would bring more jobs to the town

Betty's famous Harrogate tea rooms has unveiled plans for a major expansion.

The Betty's and Taylor's group has applied to expand its town centre premises into a neighbouring opticians.

The plans would mean a four-storey extension to the existing site on Parliament Street with a new front entrance and extended canopy.

Five preservation groups have been consulted about the proposals as they involve a listed building. The planning application is due to heard by April.

The site has been the home of Betty's tea rooms since it moved across the road from its original location in 1962.

'Sleeker' decor

The firm says the new plans will give more space for customers, recruit extra staff and allow for better disabled access.

It also plans to open a new separate coffee shop on the site.

A Betty's spokesman said: "The coffee shops at our Northallerton and Harlow Carr Cafe Tea Rooms have proved very popular and we feel offering this service at Betty's Harrogate will satisfy many of the town's conference visitors who simply want a sandwich and a cup of tea.

"The new furnishings will be in the same traditional style, just a bit sleeker and updated. We'll have comfy seats, new lighting and a sound-cushioned ceiling.