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Yorkshire Air Ambulance to build new site to cut response time to Craven

Tuesday, 7 October 2025 09:52

Illustrated image of new airbase

Yorkshire Air Ambulance is building a facility strengthening emergency response coverage for communities across Craven and the Yorkshire Dales.

The new facility, to be built near Skipton on Swale, will replace the service’s existing base at RAF Topcliffe and bring operations nearer to western parts of North Yorkshire.

The location is designed to cut response times to rural areas, including Skipton, Grassington, Malham, and Settle — areas where fast medical support can make a crucial difference.

The purpose-built site will include a helipad, crew accommodation, training facilities, and planning spaces to support the charity’s growing operational needs.

Construction work is now underway, with the project expected to be complete by autumn 2026.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Chairman Mike Harrop said the new base will secure the charity’s long-term future in the north of the region and make a direct impact on the ability to reach patients quickly across the Dales.

The development has received £300,000 in support from the HELP Appeal charity to fund the new helipad.

Local leaders have welcomed the move, saying it will provide better access to emergency air support for Skipton and surrounding villages, where terrain and travel times can pose challenges for land ambulances.

More information about the project and ways to support the charity can be found at www.yorkshireairambulance.org.uk.

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