Save our town hall, plead residents

Residents have overwhelmingly told their local authority they want the historic building to continue to be available for community use and retained by Craven Council or a trust in partnership with Skipton Town Council.

Over 120 residents attended a consultation on the future use of the town hall, where they were asked if it should be split into two distinct buildings; whether Craven Museum & Gallery and Skipton Tourist Information should be housed in the building and if the building should be transferred or sold to a trust.

According to Craven Council the building is a "huge drain" on its resources and needs "very substantial" investment to bring it up to a reasonable standard.

It will cost the council an estimated 193,000 to run the building during 2010/11 after income received from rent.

Councillor Chris Knowles-Fitton, Craven Council Leader, said: "We want to secure the best possible future for the town hall. Although we would love to continue to manage the building ourselves, this isn't financially practical. If we can work with an organisation such as Skipton Town Council or with a trust, the building may still be available for the public to use.

"I would urge anyone who wishes to tell us their thoughts on proposals for the town hall to get in touch as soon as possible. This is an important decision about an iconic building in the heart of Skipton's community."

Residents have until November 19 to share their views with the council.

The results of the consultation will form part of an options appraisal to be discussed by the council at its Policy Committee on December 8.

Built in 1862, Skipton Town Hall is home to some Craven Council services, the Craven Museum & Gallery and the town council chamber. The main hall is used for concerts and collectors' fairs.