An £8.9 million restoration of part of Harrogate's spa heritage has been given the go-ahead by councillors.

The cabinet of Harrogate Borough Council has supported a scheme to restore the dilapidated 1903 Royal Hall, which is today used for conferences and entertainment.

The green light was given after public consultation showed it had the backing of the town's residents.

Council leader Geoff Webber said: "It now needs to be passed by the full council, but the scheme had cross party support in the cabinet so I am confident that will happen.

"We can now go ahead with making applications to groups like English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund for funding."

It is estimated the council will need to find about £2 million towards the restoration.,

Updated: 11:41 Thursday, April 12, 2001