Just Under Half of Units at Dales Enterprise Centre Remain Empty
The Dales Enterprise Centre, a new facility, struggles with occupancy, with five of twelve units still vacant since its opening in January 2023.
Settle, Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire, Enterprise Centre, Small Businesses
Settle: The Dales Enterprise Centre was redeveloped from a former waste depot. It cost £3.3 million and includes a historic lime kiln. This project aimed to support local businesses.
It’s the first facility of its kind in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The centre features restored stone buildings, eight new business units, and a public car park. It offers flexible office space for various needs.
Funding came from Craven District Council, the York and North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership, and the European Regional Development Fund. The centre opened in January 2023, just before the council was replaced by North Yorkshire Council.
At the opening, officials highlighted the need for modern workspace in the area. They noted strong demand from small businesses in Craven. However, two years later, five of the twelve units are still empty.
Available units include a 1,088 sq ft space for £9,950 a year and a 1,666 sq ft office for £16,500. Cllr Mark Crane called the centre a great asset for small businesses.
He mentioned that over 50% of the units are occupied, with ongoing interest in the remaining spaces. Negotiations for a café are also in progress. The centre aims to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in rural North Yorkshire.