Supporting Rural Communities

Agriculture is a key part of our local economy, heritage and way of life. I regularly speak with farmers and landowners about the sector's challenges and opportunities. Since April 2023, £34 million has been invested in farming in Skipton and Ripon. In January, the former Government announced a major update to farming schemes, increasing payment rates by an average of 10%. I will continue to push the new Government to maintain strong funding for farmers.

Farmers in Skipton and Ripon received £566,251 from the Animal Health and Welfare Equipment fund to invest in equipment that improves livestock care and farm efficiency. I will work to ensure the new Government builds on this support.

Protecting nature is also crucial. North Yorkshire Council received £388,000 to create a strategy for nature recovery and I helped secure £1.4 million for the Great North Bog conservation project. Additionally, funding was awarded to projects like ‘Denton Park Estate’ and ‘Heart of the Dales’ under the Landscape Recovery scheme and I will advocate for the new Government to continue these efforts.

News

Julian Smith MP visits Craven Homeless Hostel

Julian Smith MP visited the Craven Homeless Hostel last week to reopen their newly refurbished building, Aireview House.   Aireview House is the Council’s temporary accommodation provision for the whole district. It had been closed for a year for a full refurbishment, and J

Julian Smith MP welcomes opening of new flood alleviation scheme in Skipton

Julian Smith MP has welcomed the announcement that a new flood alleviation scheme has officially opened today, providing additional flooding protections for an estimated 370 homes and 118 businesses in Skipton and the surrounding area.   The Skipton flood alleviation scheme received a £1.

Julian Smith MP visits Masham Liftshare offices

Julian Smith MP visited Masham Community Offices last month to understand more about the Masham Liftshare scheme, how it works and its benefits.  The scheme has been set up in partnership with North Yorkshire County Council to improve mobility for people of a

Julian Smith MP visits Black Sheep Brewery in Masham

Julian Smith MP visited Black Sheep Brewery in Masham a few weeks ago to discuss their recent news and any future policy concerns.  He met with both Andy Slee, the Chairman of Black Sheep, and Robert Theakston, the Managing Director. Chairman, Andy Slee, raised with Julian

Julian Smith MP visits the Google Digital Garage in Skipton

Julian Smith MP was pleased to visit the Google Digital Garage at Skipton Castle recently. Google Digital Garage is touring market towns to offer training in digital skills to small and medium sized business, community groups, and individuals. Market towns are facing increasing challenges due to c

Julian Smith MP urges communities to back their local high street

Julian Smith MP is encouraging community teams from across Skipton and Ripon to nominate their best local High Streets in the Great British High Street Awards 2018. The awards, sponsored by Visa, celebrate local achievements on our high streets and will encourage communities to share top tips to ma

Julian Smith MP visits The Potter Group

Julian Smith MP visited The Potter Group’s offices in Melmerby last week to meet with their Chairman and Managing Director and hear about the expansion plans for their sites. The Potter Group is a property company running five industrial estates and employing 15 people.