Settle Study Report 2012

FOREWORD:
By Julian Smith, MP for Skipton and Ripon
I am pleased to be able to introduce this document which sets out the challenges but
also many opportunities there are for such a vibrant market town as Settle.
Settle is a fantastic place with great community spirit and I am delighted to see local
organisations, businesses and individuals working together. This report, funded by the
community, will provide important evidence about the current situation and insights
into the local economy which will help to develop a stronger future.
When the Prime Minister talks about The Big Society, he need only look to what is
happening across my constituency for countless examples of it in action. What is
happening in Settle is an excellent example of this. I hope we can become a shining
example of what can happen when people pull together.
It also highlights and emphasises the importance of devolving decision making to local
communities. There is no-one better placed to make decisions about where you live or
work than you. I hope this report, and the evidence it provides, helps you make those
decisions and encourages a dialogue between those in Settle and authorities further
afield about the right way forward for the town.
All too often our communities can be held back by various groups doing excellent work
individually, but failing to work together. I would encourage everyone in Settle, from
elected representatives to council officials, shopkeepers to residents who commute, to
continue working as one team working for one cause – the improvement of the town.
I look forward to hearing more about the evolution of Settle in the coming weeks,
months and years from a town which should already be proud of what it is and what it
offers to one which is even more vibrant, prosperous and successful in the future.

The Settle Regeneration Study has been carried out by independent consultants
England & Lyle Limited and Action for Market Towns commissioned by Settle Area
Regeneration Team. Other supporters include Settle District Chamber of Trade, North
Craven Heritage Trust, Yorkshire Dales Society, Giggleswick School, over 20 businesses
and local residents. The study provides a local evidence base on the local economy of
the Settle area. It is based on empirical research on the town centre, the town’s wider
catchment area, the problems that the town is facing and views about how Settle could
be improved in the future.

Download the Report Here –> Settle Regeneration Study Report July 2012 – Main Report

Download the Appendices Here –> Settle Regeneration Study Report July 2012 – Appendix