Pennine Motors to develop Skipton House site in Skipton

Pennine Motors have announced a multi million pound deal to develop the old bus depot at Skipton House, Thanet’s Yard in Skipton, with funding from Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank.

The site has already attracted top high street retailer, Marks & Spencer and will boast three office units, nine residential apartments and 18 underground parking spaces. Completion is planned for early November, with Marks & Spencer due to open its doors to the public in November.

Norman Simpson, Managing Director of Pennine Motors said: “This development is a great boost for Skipton and the local economy. It will provide new housing and jobs in the heart of the town, as well as supporting the local bus network. The income from this development will help Pennine Motors to continue to provide a bus network in the region, ensuring passengers continue to get a great service.”

Family run, Pennine Motors was established in 1920, originally as a bike repair shop before moving into motorbike repairs and eventually cars and buses as the motor transport revolution became established. The company started operating buses in 1925, providing a service for the Skipton area. The business is now run by Norman Simpson and his sons Maurice and John Simpson. Pennine Motors owns 17 vehicles servicing parts of North and West Yorkshire and Lancashire. In addition, Pennine Motors own a number of sites and bus yards in the region, with plans to replace the fleet and improve facilities for passengers with disabilities.

Craig Iley, Senior Relationship Manager at Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank said: “Pennine Motors has evolved significantly over its 87 year history, constantly looking at new opportunities and diversifying in order to expand the business. This deal will not only provide a wealth of opportunity for Skipton, but also enable Pennine Motors to develop their bus operations in the region by reinvesting profits in the business.”

Norman Simpson continues: “I approached five different banks looking for the best deal. Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank was the only bank that offered the relationship service I was looking for combined with a competitive deal. My relationship manager took the time to understand my business, explain the in and outs of the deal and ensure the package was tailored to suit our requirements.”

Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors, Quantum Arbiter Limited (QAL) have successfully managed the redevelopment of the site, working closely with Paul Milner of Quarmby Special Projects, who are the main contractors on the Skipton House project.