Yorkshire Air Ambulance plans new base at Skipton on Swale

The Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) has taken the first steps toward developing a new Northern Air Support Unit.

Following years of searching for a suitable site, YAA has agreed to purchase land on the outskirts of Skipton on Swale, just 3.5 miles from its current operations at RAF Topcliffe near Thirsk.

The new base will be purpose-built to reflect the existing YAA’s Nostell Air Support Unit near Wakefield. The proposed development will create a dedicated, long-term base for the northern region, providing stability for the charity’s lifesaving operations and ensuring it is equipped to respond to emergencies efficiently.

YAA chairman Mike Harrop said: "For more than a decade, YAA has operated as a tenant at RAF Topcliffe, benefiting from the invaluable support of the Royal Air Force, the British Army’s 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, and the local community.

"While this relationship has been pivotal in enabling YAA to deliver its critical service, the charity’s vision for a purpose-built base reflects its commitment to advancing its capabilities and ensuring its crews can operate at the highest level in the years ahead.

"We are delighted to take this important step in securing the future of our lifesaving service.

"While this project is still in its early stages, it represents our commitment to providing the very best resources for our crews and patients across Yorkshire.

"The opportunity to design, build, and own this air support unit will enable the Charity to focus on delivering value for money and exceptional critical care to the people of Yorkshire, while maintaining our central presence in North Yorkshire—minimising response times and ensuring we can be there for those who need us most.”

How the new building could look (Image: Supplied) With the planning application submission imminent, YAA have been engaging with Skipton on Swale Parish Council, North Yorkshire County Council, and other local stakeholders. While the project remains in its infancy, Yorkshire Air Ambulance is committed to keeping the public informed of its progress.

Mr Harrop said: “This project marks an exciting new chapter for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, which would not be possible without the generous fundraising and ongoing support from our loyal supporters and the wider community, whose contributions are vital to sustaining our lifesaving work.”

Yorkshire Air Ambulance operates a fleet of advanced Airbus H145 helicopters, serving a population of five million people across four million acres.

The charity relies entirely on the generosity of its supporters, with every mission funded by public donations.

For more information about Yorkshire Air Ambulance and how you can support its lifesaving work, please visit www.yaa.org.uk.