On Friday 10th January, Local MP Julian Smith visited Cononley Village Institute to learn more about the green retrofit project.
The project has improved the facility's energy efficiency and sustainability.
It began in 2023 and finished a year later, which has transformed the 116-year-old community building into a more energy-efficient and comfortable space.
The government granted the project £36,654 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and and this with additional funding raised locally, enabled the installation of solar panels, enhanced insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and modernised glazing.
These improvements will reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and provide a comfortable environment for the community groups and activities using the institute.
Julian was joined by Aire Valley Councillor Cllr Andy Brown, Mid Craven Councillor Simon Myers, officers from North Yorkshire Council and York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Speaking after his visit, Julian said:
"It is great to see the positive impact to Cononley’s community by creating a greener and warmer space.
“The work carried out at the Village Institute is an excellent example of how local initiatives, backed by grants and community effort, can deliver real benefits.
“I am grateful to the North Yorkshire Councillors, Parish Council, local volunteers, North Yorkshire Council, The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority and everyone else involved in this project for their hard work and dedication.”
The Cononley Village Institute hosts a Nursery, a range of activities including Yoga, a Cinema Club, an Art group, a Choir and parties for the young and old.
It also supports seasonal events like the Scarecrow festival, Christmas Fair and Beer Festival.
You can visit their website here.

Herriots Hotel to host Wear Pink Afternoon in aid of Breast Cancer Now
Skipton Mayor to open Whinfield Bowling Club's open day
BBC Masterchef runner up to open café bar on Sheep Street
Craven College celebrates excellent Ofsted report
Popular village pub closes with immediate effect after more than seven years
Skipton pub loved by many announces closure
Skipton residents urged to put bins out earlier as hot weather continues
Skipton Colour Run raises £6,500 for academy students
Council urged to lower speed limit through Embsay and Eastby
Keighley arts centre unveils adult learning plans
Silsden gardeners get ready for Open Gardens Weekend
Solstice runners raise £25,000 for Sue Ryder
Amber heat warning issued for North Yorkshire
Brooklands school visit Skipton Hospital to learn the importance of nurses
Skipton MP Meets local councillor and residents to discuss road safety concerns at Skipton Estate
Bin crews to start earlier this week due to the heat
Still time to sign up for Solstice Saunter on Sunday
Leeds Bradford Airport to launch weekly flights to Santorini
Addingham Gala Festival set to be 'Out of this World'
Transdev partners with Yorkshire and North West Air Ambulance charities


