Skipton celebrates new sports hub

A North Yorkshire sports facility is set to boost community activities and youth engagement.

Skipton Community Sports Hub, a £1 million venue, has officially opened, bringing together Skipton Juniors Football Club and Skipton Cricket Club. 

The official ribbon-cutting was performed by under-15 cricketer Millie Thompson-Barker and under-nine footballer Oliver Schofield.

Malcolm Birks, chairperson of the Skipton Community Hub, said: “The development has been nine years in the making and it’s amazing to see that a project, that was borne out of a vision centred on the values and power of community sport, has been embraced not only by the sports clubs that joined forces to deliver it, but by the Skipton community as a whole. 

“It really is a tremendous asset to the town.”

Since becoming operational in September 2024, the 3500sq ft hub has supported 600 young people and hosted a variety of community events, from birthday parties to choirs.

The project was funded by grants from the Football Foundation, England and Wales Cricket Trust, local councils and generous donations from club members, supporters and local organisations.

Malcolm added: “The project shows what can be achieved when people come together with a vision built around the core values of community, inclusion and mutual support. 

“There is so much potential in this place, and so many more good things that can be achieved.”

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