I believe Skipton to be a unique place, of which all of us who live or conduct business in the town can be justifiably proud. We are fortunate to be connected with this historic town, with one of the finest medieval castles in the North of England, a wonderful and charismatic retail area, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and its basin, a fascinating museum which houses a rare Shakespearian First Folio, and an ancient market, alongside many other attractive features. Skipton is a great place for families and animal lovers having Skipton Castle woods at the top of the High Street. In addition Skipton is the historic Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, an area that can be truly described as one of the finest examples of natural beauty in the country with all the benefits this brings for tourism in the area.
Back in 2009 businesses voted for a Business Improvement District (BID) to be set up in Skipton and re-voted for the BID to continue in 2014 and again in 2019. By doing so the businesses have enabled the BID board to invest approximately £1.5 million in Skipton to date; and the recent successful ballot has opened up the opportunity to invest a further £800,000 in Skipton over the coming five years. The Board are committed to continuing to raise the town’s profile and enabled Skipton to remain relevant, a place where people want to live, work and spend their leisure time.
Moving forward we see more changes in the high street as the technological revolution continues at a pace. It is up to us to adapt quickly embracing the changes making Skipton a better safer place for people to enjoy their leisure time. The Skipton BID can only help improve our town, and without it we will see Skipton fail to meet its full potential.
Andrew Mear
Chairman
Board Members

Vacant
Chairman
Stephanie Wheelhouse
Acting Chair (Elected Vice-Chairman)
Geraldine Thompson
Bid Manager
David Smurthwaite
Board Member
Ivan Le Roux
Board Member
Penny Blakey
Board Member
Malcolm Weaving
Board Member
Rachel Fryers
Board Member