Councillors given update on domestic violence refuge in Scarborough

Cabinet member Cllr Janet Jefferson (Ind) updated today’s full council meeting on progress towards the domestic violence refuge.

Land at Danes Dyke in Newby is being offered to registered service providers for the purpose of developing the facility, a plan that was first mooted in 2015.

Scarborough Council’s cabinet granted “in principle” use of the land for the women’s shelter in September when it approved the authority’s homeless strategy for the next four years.

Cllr Jefferson, the portfolio holder for finance and operations, reported back to members on the progress being made.

She stated: “I am happy to report that officers are working jointly with North Yorkshire County Council on this proposal.

“A process is underway to select a development partner and the outcomes of this shall be reported back to Cabinet in April. I am aware of the importance given to this project from members of the council and the development of this refuge is very much a priority.”

Scarborough has the highest domestic violence rate in North Yorkshire.