A semi-derelict shop in the centre of a Yorkshire Dales market town is set to be given a new lease of life as it becomes a centre for learning in a major re-development project.

It was announced back in February that the Grade II listed building in Bedale's Market Place will provide a one stop shop, 'selling' learning and skills to local people and businesses.

The £552,000 development will see Business Support and Development Ltd - part of North Yorkshire Business Link - move out of cramped rented offices into a central location giving it a unique high street presence. Nine jobs will be moved there - and another two created.

...we also hope it will raise confidence for investment in Bedale and by improving the overall look of the market place encourage other property owners in the vicinity to restore their buildings.

Tony Hall - Hambleton Councillor

Work on the scheme - which is expected to take six months - will begin before the end of the month. It sees cash from Hambleton District Council and Yorkshire Forward linked with building preservation and project management help coming from the North of England Civic Trust. The development is part of Yorkshire Forwards' Rural Renaissance Project which aims to revitalise market towns across the Yorkshire Dales.

Number 17 Market Place has been empty for many years - falling into disrepair after a hardware store moved out. The District Council has secured a long lease on the building and it is hoped that once it is brought back into use it will inspire other investment in the town centre.

"This project is a further example of the District Council's commitment to the regeneration of its market towns," said Cabinet Member, Councillor Tony Hall.

"While the main purpose is to bring semi derelict premises back into productive use, we also hope it will raise confidence for investment in Bedale and by improving the overall look of the market place encourage other property owners in the vicinity to restore their buildings too."

The new one stop shop will provide business and self employment support services, adult training, young enterprise training and offer help and advice to the unemployed through access to the Job Centre website.

It will also be able to direct people towards services from local councils, community education providers, fitness and leisure pursuits and training.

• It is hoped that the organisation's old premises in Bridge Street will be used to pilot a youth facility in the town.