March has been a busy and productive month, with important engagements, meetings, and visits across Skipton and Ripon, as well as Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP’s work in Parliament.
Education remains a priority and Julian had the pleasure of visiting Craven College to see their exciting new developments, including upgraded motor vehicle and construction facilities funded by T Level capital investment. Down in Parliament, Julian welcomed school groups from Upper Wharfedale School, Thornton in Craven Community Primary, Gargrave CofE School, and Skipton Girls High School to Parliament, where he had insightful discussions on local and national issues.
A key focus this month has been advocating for local businesses and services. Julian was disappointed by the decision to close Grassington Sorting Office and met with Royal Mail representatives and the Communication Workers Union to highlight the impact this will have on residents, particularly in such a rural area.
Similarly, Julian convened and attended meetings regarding the proposed closure of Arla Foods' site in Settle, bringing together stakeholders, including local councillor David Staveley, the GMB Union, and Arla representatives, and the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire to explore ways to protect jobs and support affected workers.
Supporting our local economy is essential, and Julian was proud to see three businesses from the constituency named finalists in the Countryside Alliance Awards - Drake & Macefield Butchers, Clarendon Country Pub, and Town End Farm Shop. These businesses play a vital role in our rural communities, and Julian encourages everyone to support them by voting in the awards.
Infrastructure and healthcare were also on the agenda. Julian visited the £7.8 million Transforming Cities Fund ‘Gateway’ project in Skipton, which will improve transport links and boost the local economy. Additionally, Julian met with staff at Dyneley House Surgery to discuss their plans for expansion, ensuring they can continue providing excellent healthcare to residents as demand grows.
Julian also attended the Skipton and Ripon Area Committee, where he was asked about a range of issues including; school transport, Ripon police and fire station, the Studley Revealed project and smart meter connectivity.
Following Julian’s contribution during the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, Julian met with the National Autistic Society to discuss their thoughts and concerns around the Bill and its effect on autistic children and their families.
In Parliament, Julian raised the impact of increased National Insurance contributions on job growth in North Yorkshire and urged the Government to reconsider funding structures to protect children’s hospices. Julian also stood in solidarity with Ukraine at the Bring Kids Back UA event, supporting efforts to reunite abducted children with their families.
Julian was also pleased to celebrate local achievements, including Settle Stories being shortlisted for the Education Resources Awards and participated in World Book Day in Westminster to highlight the importance of reading for young people.
As always, Julian remains committed to advocating for the Skipton and Ripon constituency. Constituents are encouraged to reach out to him at: [email protected].
