One of the first Renaissance Market Towns (RMT), Bedale joined the programme in 2003.

Bedale Station has been redeveloped. It is not just a part of Wensleydale Railway but also has 10 new business units of varying sizes. Many of the units are now occupied. Over the next few years it is anticipated that Bedale Station (and Leeming Bar Industrial Estate close by), will attract more new businesses and bring much needed jobs to the area.

Through another project 17 Market Place, Bedale has been brought back into economic use. After years of neglect, and having become a blot on the main street, the building has been sensitively restored and now provides a base for Business Support and Development Ltd, the local business support service. It enables the Bedale training Group, Connexions, Learn Direct and the Community Education Service to provide an integrated, learning and skills facility in the heart of the town.

Work is moving forward on a project to provide grants for bringing other properties into economic use and for shop front improvements. There are also plans being developed for improving the connections between the town and Bedale Station.