Agenda item

Kevin Hollinrake, MP for Thirsk and Malton.

Sir Alec Shelbrooke, MP for Wetherby and Easingwold – written update included.

Councillors received a written update from Sir Alec Shelbrooke MP and a verbal update from Kevin Hollinrake MP. Mr Hollinrake provided an overview of current national and local issues affecting communities across North Yorkshire and answered questions from members.

1.     Cost of living and the economy

Mr Hollinrake highlighted the continued pressures facing households and businesses. Rising energy and fuel costs are being felt particularly sharply in rural areas, where many homes rely on heating oil, and the hospitality sector is under strain due to increased operating costs.

2.     A64 improvements

Members were informed that the planned upgrade to the A64 has been delayed for a further five years. Mr Hollinrake expressed disappointment and stressed the need for a united cross-party effort to secure progress, given the importance of the scheme for safety, connectivity and the local economy.

3.     Housing and infrastructure

The MP raised concerns about the significant increase in national housing targets for North Yorkshire, noting that the higher numbers place added pressure on essential infrastructure such as highways, drainage, GP practices and dental services. He emphasised that while he supports new homes, the distribution of national targets should be fair.

4.     Local Government funding and SEND

Mr Hollinrake acknowledged the financial challenges facing the Council, particularly in social care, special educational needs and home-to-school transport. He noted long-standing issues with the national funding formula, which disproportionately affects rural areas, and committed to continuing to raise these concerns in Parliament.

5.     Solar developments

He reiterated his opposition to large solar farm proposals on high-quality agricultural land due to their impact on food production and the landscape.

6.     Local transport and community assets

The MP explained that he would continue working to secure progress on the Filey town bus service following a lack of support from the Combined Authority. He also expressed regret at the national closure of the Community Ownership Fund, which had supported valued community projects in the area.

7.     Other local issues

Mr Hollinrake confirmed his support for the “Paths for Everyone” project and spoke about the importance of the rural shooting industry to local jobs and tourism.

Issues raised by Councillors

Councillors raised a number of matters with the MP, including:

·       A64 delays and the need to maintain pressure for improvements.

·       Wood-burning stove regulations and their impact on rural households facing high heating costs.

·       Shrinkflation, where product sizes reduce while prices rise, and the effect on household budgets.

·       SEND funding and ongoing deficits, and concerns about how future shortfalls will be managed.

·       Second homes premium and its impact on local businesses in Filey.

·       Public toilet provision in Filey, with concerns about reduced facilities during busy periods.

·       Travel issues for staff affected by proposed moves and congestion on the A64.

·       Access to energy retrofit schemes, particularly for households who are not eligible for low-income support but still struggle with rising costs.

Mr Hollinrake acknowledged the challenges raised and the wider pressures on public finances. He stressed the importance of constructive cross-party working to address issues such as the A64 and local transport. He agreed that some residents fall between existing support schemes and said he would reflect their experiences in his discussions with government.

The Chair thanked the MP for his attendance and contribution.