Plans to Build ‘21st Century Barn’ Submitted

A Yorkshire-based farm shop has submitted an application to build an eco-friendly barn which will create 60 new jobs in the area

Keelham Farm Shop, in Skipton, hopes to expand its business by converting a vacant garage site into a shop selling regional produce.

It will include a butchers, bakery, delicatessen, café and areas for cookery demonstrations. There will also be 127 parking spaces created.

Victoria Robertshaw, director and co-owner of Keelham Farm Shop, said, “We believe that food tastes better from the farm and we aim to make affordable, fresh, good quality produce available to everyone and for customers to buy as much, or as little as they need. In Thornton, we have deep roots and our staff offer educational activities, a host of family-friendly events and support local charities.

“We love making a difference and look forward to forging these relationships in Skipton, becoming a community asset, as well as a valued business,” she added.

James Robertshaw, co-owner, commented, “At Keelham, generations of experience has taught us the importance of championing local farmers and producers; they help strengthen our local economy, conserve our surrounding countryside, and offer the freshest, tastiest food.

“Skipton is the ideal location to expand our award-winning business as the site fits perfectly with our values and active support of the rural farming community. We look forward to building a new network of producers here,” he said.