Over the next five years, the Skipton Development programme will invest around £70 million into Skipton through the provision of new housing (including 40 per cent affordable housing on each residential site) new retail outlets and public space as well as the restoration and revitalisation of Skipton’s historic Town Hall.
The announcement this week marks the end of extensive consultation and evaluation which sought the best possible solution for the town and district.
“This is an historic moment for the council and a milestone for the future prosperity and success of Skipton. Over the past four years, we have listened long and hard to what Craven residents have had to say about the development. Their comments and opinions have played a significant part in determining how we go forward”, said Carl Lis, Leader of Craven District Council.
“The proposals put forward by The Accent Group will help maintain Skipton as Yorkshires’ premier market town through the creation of new sustainable housing, new retail outlets as well as a contemporary cultural centre.
“We were especially enthused to hear of Accents’ willingness to engage and work with the local community ” added Carl.
Martin Kelly, Chief Executive of Accent, said:
“Accent is delighted to have been selected as the partner for this exciting project. We have a track record of working in partnership with local councils to deliver projects that really do enhance the lives of people living in the district.
“As a community investment organisation, Accent recognises that it is essential to work closely with the local community and its representatives to deliver a project that meets local needs and provides a lasting legacy. Our philosophy is to engage fully with our stakeholders throughout the project to make sure that the final product is something about which local people can be proud.
“The project will meet the immediate requirements of the area as well as providing an infrastructure for many years ahead.”
The four key sites that make up Skipton Developments include:
• The development of 75 new homes on Granville Street to meet a range of lifestyles including housing for the elderly
• An exemplar contemporary housing scheme at Horse Close.
• Transformation of Skipton Town Hall into a modern cultural centre of excellence for the district, incorporating contemporary exhibition galleries, a refurbished Craven Museum, a modernised performance hall and a range of multi purpose meeting rooms
Enhanced as a heritage asset the Town Hall will become home to the Tourist Information Centre and the Council’s own ‘Contact Craven’ making services and information easily accessible to residents and tourists alike
• New exciting retail opportunities, combined with high quality apartments at 9 High Street
Subject to planning permission it is envisaged work on Horse Close and 9 High Street will start later in the year, followed by the Town Hall and Granville Street