LAND and property owners in Craven are being encouraged by the Rural Development Commission to apply for grants to convert redundant buildings into workspace to help create new jobs.

The Rural Development Commission has relaunched its Redundant Building Grant scheme to encourage entrepreneurs to do business in the countryside.

Andy Tordoff, the commission's regional business development officer, said: "The environmental advantages in transforming such buildings are significant.

"New sites don't have to be developed and they are often saved from becoming an eyesore on the landscape or being open to vandalism."

Converted buildings can be used for a wide range of activities including manufacturing, crafts, service businesses, offices, tourism, leisure, and retail outlets.

Mr Tordoff added: "In many Craven villages there are unused buildings which, through conversion, could create jobs for the local community within bicycle distance of home, and an improvement in the appearance of the countryside by saving old and interesting buildings which are part of rural heritage."

One of the most successful schemes in Craven has been the conversion of old buildings at Broughton Hall, where a prestigious business park has been created.

It is currently home to 38 companies, employing more than 350 people, and further expansion is planned.

Disused chapels and schools in several other areas have become thriving enterprises, boosting the local economy.

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