Liberal Democrats and Tories to gather in York and Harrogate

In York, the Liberal Democrats will be gathering at the Barbican Centre from Friday March 17th to Sunday March 19.

The party, led by Ed Davey, return to the site of their 2024 conference, after spending last Spring in Harrogate.

Here, the Conservative Party will be staging its Spring Conference at the Harrogate Convention Centre, which runs from Friday March 6 to Sunday March 8, with some 8,000 delegates expected.

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The Liberal Democrats have already published its agenda, which will include a speech from Party leader Ed Davey on the Sunday as well as a Q&A session earlier in the event.

Ed Davey will be in York next month at the Spring Conference of the Liberal Democrats. (Image: PA)

Caron Lindsay, editor of the Liberal Democrat Voice told party supporters on her website: “You can go to debates on access to driving lessons, preserving trial by jury, revitalising town centres, universities, mental health, Donald Trump and Council finance.

“There are speeches from MPs Anna Sabine and James MacCleary and Watford Mayor Peter Taylor, as well as Ed, of course.

“You can help shape future policy by going to consultative sessions on international security, primary healthcare and defending democracy.”

The Barbican in York will be hosting the Liberal Democrats again. (Image: Pic supplied)

The Conservative Party has yet to produce its agenda for the Harrogate conference, which is its biggest event outside the autumn conference.

The October event was in Manchester and was organised last year by Stewart Harper, the president of the National Conservative Convention.

Mr Harper has now written on the Tory-supporting website Conservative home what next month’s event promises.

He said: “Spring Conference brings together activists, councillors, candidates and volunteers from across the country for a weekend focused on ideas, skills and connection.”

The Harrogate Convention Centre is hosting the Conservative Party next month. (Image: Pic supplied)

“Delivered in partnership with the Campaign Academy and the Conservative Councillors’ Association, the programme is designed to be practical and engaging. And unapologetically optimistic about the Party’s future.

“And it’s an opportunity to socialise together too – including with a members’ dinner on Saturday night – meeting up with friends and colleagues from across the country.”

He continued: “Our Spring Conference offers members a valuable opportunity to hear directly from senior figures within the Party, including the most senior members of the Shadow Cabinet, and to gain first-hand insight into a growing and evolving renewal programme.”

“It is a chance for every Party Member to engage – not through headlines or soundbites, but through thoughtful discussion and shared experience.”

Mr Harper added: “Harrogate offers the perfect blend of elegant spa-town charm, Yorkshire hospitality and some pretty decent venues, making it an inspiring and welcoming place to come together.”