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.
