On Friday, 10 January, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP visited the Cononley Village Institute to learn more about the project that has improved the building’s energy efficiency and sustainability. The Retrofit Project, which began in mid-2023 and finished a year later, has transformed the 116-year-old community building into a more energy-efficient and comfortable space.
The project received a UK government grant of £36,654 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and this with additional funding raised locally, enabled the installation of solar panels, enhanced insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and modernised glazing. These improvements will reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and provide a comfortable environment for the community groups and activities using the institute.
The meeting was hosted by members of the Institute Advisory Committee and the local community. Julian was joined by Aire Valley Councillor Cllr Andy Brown, Mid Craven Councillor Simon Myers, officers from North Yorkshire Council and York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Speaking after his visit, Julian said: "It is great to see the positive impact to Cononley’s community by creating a greener and warmer space. The work carried out at the Village Institute is an excellent example of how local initiatives, backed by grants and community effort, can deliver real benefits. I am grateful to the North Yorkshire Councillors, Parish Council, local volunteers, North Yorkshire Council, The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and everyone else involved in this project for their hard work and dedication.”
Hugh Rudden, Chair of the Institute Advisory committee said “We are pleased with this major step forward in making the Institute building fit for the future. The recent cold weather has already demonstrated the real difference that can be made through improving insulation and using solar panels. We would like to thank all our contractors, our volunteers and the staff of North Yorkshire for their support in achieving this project so quickly and with minimum disruption."
The Cononley Village Institute hosts a Nursery, a range of activities including Yoga, a Cinema Club, an Art group, a Choir and parties for the young and old. It also supports seasonal events like the Scarecrow festival, Christmas Fair and Beer Festival. https://www.cononleyinstitute.co.uk/
