3 days Ago
Mayor David Skaith announced the North Yorkshire Village Hall and Community Buildings Programme earlier this week, which will see the money go towards transformation projects on village halls and community buildings. Mr Skaith was inspired to commit extra funding after seeing the impact North Yorkshire Council’s (NYC) previous investment using the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) had on the 43 village halls and community buildings it supported. Some of the buildings that will benefit include Sessay Village Hall, Thirsk and Great Ouseburn Village Hall, Harrogate.
Sessay Village Hall, Thirsk (Image: SESSAY VILLAGE HALL) More details regarding buildings that will be renovated will be shared at a later date, according to representatives of the Mayor, Mr Skaith said: “We live in a unique region, with vast and beautiful landscapes, but that can often lead to isolated rural communities. I am so pleased to be able to help expand this amazing programme by supporting improvements for up to 21 community buildings, from village halls to cricket clubs, in some of the most rural patches of North Yorkshire. “For so many residents, these vital community hubs are a social and emotional lifeline, providing opportunities to socialise, access services, sports, and activities that is so important to support wellbeing and create healthy and thriving communities.
“I am very excited to see the fantastic things the halls and hubs will do with the funding, and the impact that will have on people’s everyday lives, ensuring we all feel the benefits of devolution.” The funds will help make essential changes to ensure the buildings can improve or extend their offer, and support their future sustainability. North Yorkshire Council leader Carl Les added: “It has been brilliant to see the positive impact that Shared Prosperity Fund investment has made on village halls and community buildings across North Yorkshire over the last two years.
"These buildings play a vital role in the communities they serve, and it is great news that the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority (YNYCA) have committed to build on the work started by North Yorkshire Council so we can work together to support even more buildings with funding for improvement projects.”.
