Malton & Norton’s ambitions to be as famous for being circular as for food, gain momentum

A new printed and digital map and directory highlights the sustainability initiatives offered by many local businesses and groups across the town.

A prominent new high street circular hub has also opened, incorporating a shop and a studio, where people can be inspired as they explore the vast array of circular actions they can take as their first step.

The towns are the first in North Yorkshire to set this aspiring circular goal, and the organisation’s vision is for the towns to be as firmly on the map for sustainability as Malton is already for food.

Circular economies inspire people and businesses to rethink materials and waste.

Done smartly this saves money as well as energy and emissions.

Circular Malton & Norton CIC’s approach is to make it easy and fun for people to get involved starting with reusing, repurposing and upcycling – keeping materials out of landfill and in circulation for as long as possible.

Amongst the many innovative sustainable businesses and places already firmly on the map are the 100% natural and plastic-free skincare and household products by Cosy Cottage, the butcher’s shop Food 2 Remember, whose meat is all sourced from within 10 miles, two delightful refill shops, Scoops and the natural health shop The Beecham Weigh and Cathy Coe Sewing who encourages fabric reuse through clothing alterations and redesigns.

A large-scale version of the new map features on the wall of the Circular Hub at 23 Wheelgate in Malton where the team will talk to visitors about the different shops and groups and where to find them, including within the North York Moors National Park.

The map is also online together with plans for a wider directory enabling people to search for a sustainable option for their everyday needs.

The CIC is calling for other local businesses to contact them to share their sustainability actions so they can be included in the directory.

The new circular hub on the high street is both a shop and a studio with dedicated space inspiring people to become hands-on themselves.

It’s home to Ryedale Remakes, selling charming and uniquely upcycled gifts and furniture that tell stories of their previous lives whilst avoiding materials going to waste, and Marnie Jean’s Boutique’s beautiful pre-loved clothing, jewellery and accessories.

Coming soon will be the opportunity to adopt rescued teddy bears with their unique story written by a local author.

A dedicated creative studio space sees volunteers working on current and commissioned upcycling projects and will soon host workshops, repair cafes and fun events for people to immerse themselves in more circular choices and learn new skills.

Sue Jefferson, Co-Founder and Director of Malton & Norton CIC said: “We have a bold and exciting vision for the towns to thrive by becoming circular and for people in Malton and Norton to be proud of the benefits it creates – for themselves, their town and the planet.

“We’re proud to have launched these important first initiatives and are working on many more exciting opportunities to take sustainability in the town from strength to strength.”