Office plan for waste depot will bring jobs

A SENIOR councillor has said plans to transform a former waste depot into a rural enterprise centre will provide a vital asset for the economy.

Craven Council’s proposals for the site at Langcliffe Quarry, near Settle, have been approved by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority’s planning committee.

The new development will create more than 26,000 square feet of business space, revamping the old stone buildings into modern office space, with shared facilities including a training and meeting room.

Coun Simon Myers, the deputy leader of Craven Council, said: “I’m delighted that these plans have been approved.

“This scheme will help provide much- needed additional workspace in the district.

“We know that there is a strong demand for more modern, flexible workspace for new and existing smaller businesses in Craven.”

The York and North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership has approved funding of £ 1.6m. It is expected that the new development will support about 30 fulltime equivalent jobs.

The scheme will also help with the preservation of the historic Hoffman Kiln, a 19th century oven which is a protected ancient monument, through a long- term conservation plan. The joint venture company Craven Barnfield will act as the developer.

Coun David Staveley, a ward member for Settle, said: “The Langcliffe Hoffman Kiln site has a long- standing history of employment.

“As such it has proved a challenging site to continue that commercial focus, while protecting the heritage asset.”

Barnfield Group chairman Tim Webber added: “We have worked closely with the council, planners and Historic England to bring forward an exceptional development proposal that will underscore economic activity in the National Park.”