Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP visited Café Express at Skipton Railway Station on Friday, 4 October, following the successful resolution of a longstanding lease negotiation issue. Invited by Marion Armstrong, Director of Station Café Ltd, the visit celebrated the recent completion of a new four-year lease for the café premises.
Café Express had faced challenges with renegotiating their lease after it expired in summer 2021. However, following intervention from Julian, a new tripartite agreement between Station Café Ltd, Northern and Network Rail was agreed.
Julian met with Marion and Andrew Haley - Manager and Director of The Station Café Ltd, to discuss the importance of this agreement for the station. The café provides a key service for commuters and visitors alike, supporting the station's vibrant atmosphere.
Commenting on the visit, Julian said: "It is fantastic news that Café Express has secured a new lease, ensuring its continued presence at Skipton Railway Station. I was pleased to meet with Marion and Andrew to hear about the positive impact this agreement will have on the station and the local community. Small businesses like this are the heart of our local economy and it is important that they are supported."
Commenting, Marion said, “Café express has occupied a small space in the foyer of Skipton station since 2008. We had reached an impasse on renegotiating the lease with the train operator and their agents. After reaching out to Julian Smith negotiations moved swiftly and we were able to successfully agree terms and secure a further 4 year lease. We are most grateful to Julian for his help. The cafe employs 6 people and offers a warm and friendly welcome to passengers and railway staff seven days a week. Where possible we use local suppliers. It's great to have our tenancy settled for a further 4 years.”
