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03

Jun

Last Updated: 02/06/2025
Business
Business

Sums revealed for mayor's £10 million high street fund

by Calvin Robinson Chief Reporter

| 03 Jun, 2025
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mayordavidskaith-3
David Skaith, Labour mayor of York and North Yorkshire.

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has revealed funding allocations for the mayor’s £10 million high street fund.

Labour mayor David Skaith launched the fund in February to help “boost the resilience” of local high streets.

As previously reported, a total of 18 projects across York and North Yorkshire received funding including four in the Harrogate district.

However, details over how much each scheme was awarded were not revealed.

Now, the combined authority has published sums awarded to each project and details of what each initiative entails.

They include:

  • A full vacant shops audit of Harrogate town centre to support future initiatives - Harrogate BID - £7,330
  • Investing in advanced spend data to provide critical insights for strategic leaders and stakeholders to make informed decisions and deliver vibrant and resilient high streets - Harrogate BID (joint application with York BID) - £32,670
  • Boost North Yorkshire market towns by increasing footfall, supporting local businesses and supply chains - Totally Locally - £39,000
  • Creating a distinctive identity encompassing the history and people of Masham. To include events and activities, brand activity, flyers, interactive map, history tour, edible planters, signage and shop local campaign - Mashamshire Community Office - £39,890

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority said the successful projects would receive the targeted investment to support initiatives designed to increase footfall and community engagement.

Mr Skaith said:

High streets aren’t dying; they are just changing. I want to support these changes that are led by, and for the benefit of our communities. 

The fantastic applications received in phase one of my Vibrant and Sustainable High Street Fund showcased fresh ideas to increase footfall and build stronger communities through events and improved spaces.

Funding for the projects has been allocated from the mayoral investment fund, which is worth £540 million over 30 years.

The high street fund spans four years. A second round of funding will be opened this year.