Just before the start of December Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP began the Christmas celebrations with a visit to the Ripon Cathedral to meet with Dean John Dobson. There was a fantastic range of stalls and presents together with great food and drink. It was a completely different look to the Cathedral.
At the beginning of December Julian met with representatives from Arla’s Settle Creamery to address ongoing odour issues affecting local residents and businesses. This followed extensive dialogue with Settle and Giggleswick residents, parish councillors, and North Yorkshire Councillor David Staveley. During the meeting, Julian reviewed mitigation measures already implemented and proposed further discussions in the New Year to assess progress. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring swift and effective action, continuing to work closely with the Environment Agency and North Yorkshire Council to represent community concerns.
On 16 December, Julian held a follow-up meeting with the Environment Agency and North Yorkshire Council to review developments on this issue. Key updates included site inspections, odour checks, and discussions with senior management to accelerate progress.
To mark Small Business Saturday, Julian visited JD Mounsey Ltd in Settle, an electrical company at the heart of the local business community. Accompanied by Cllr David Staveley, Julian met with owner Jonathan Mounsey to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses. Highlighting the essential role of small enterprises, Julian called on residents to continue supporting local businesses that contribute significantly to the local economy and community.
Julian responded to Ofwat’s announcement of a £104 billion investment in water infrastructure, which includes a planned rise in household water bills. While acknowledging the financial impact on constituents, Julian emphasised the necessity of modernising water infrastructure to address pollution, improve resilience, and safeguard water supplies. He pledged to monitor Yorkshire Water’s use of the additional funding, advocating for transparency and support for households struggling with rising costs.
Julian welcomed the news that Cononley Community Primary School will convert to academy status on 1 January 2025. Joining the Yorkshire Collaborative Academy Trust, the school will gain access to enhanced resources and collaboration opportunities. Julian expressed optimism that this transition will further strengthen the school’s educational offerings and benefit the community.
The Burton in Lonsdale community group secured £300,000 from the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund to purchase and rejuvenate The Punch Bowl Inn. Julian, a strong supporter of the initiative, praised the community’s dedication and teamwork, emphasising the importance of preserving local facilities as vital assets. He looks forward to seeing the pub thrive under local ownership.
On 31 December, Julian visited the Wild Explorers holiday club on the Broughton Hall Estate near Skipton. Part of the FEAST programme, the club provides engaging activities for children during school holidays. Julian commended the initiative for promoting confidence, creativity, and well-being among young people. He encouraged families to explore the wide array of FEAST activities available across North Yorkshire.
As the year concludes, Julian remains committed to advocating for the Skipton and Ripon constituency. Constituents are encouraged to reach out to him at: [email protected].
