We are developing a Town Investment Plan (TIP) for Richmond as part of a regeneration programme across 32 towns in the county. The plans will help guide future funding bids by making sure they are targeted to local priorities.
This project is supported by David Skaith, Major of York and North Yorkshire and part-funded by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Richmond is a historic market town of remarkable heritage, natural beauty and civic pride, known for its Georgian architecture, Norman castle and closeness to the Yorkshire Dales. The town’s position as a gateway to the national park and a hub for tourism, heritage and local businesses presents opportunities to grow its visitor economy and strengthen its role as a service centre for nearby rural communities.
Economy and employment
Richmond’s economy is largely characterised by the hospitality, education and construction sectors. However, it faces challenges with lower-than-average salaries, fewer full-time jobs and limited access to employment overall.
Solutions could focus on diversifying its employment base, attracting other industries and creating opportunities that support local businesses and start-ups.
Demographics
Richmond has an ageing population, as well as a low number of young people. For those young people who do live in the town, there is limited youth provision such as youth clubs, events and social spaces.
Solutions would focus on increasing the involvement of young people in decisions regarding the town, improving spaces for young people and diversifying the offer available to them.
Built environment
Richmond’s built environment is a significant asset to the town, from its historic market square to over 340 listed buildings. However, it faces several challenges, including the maintenance of its heritage buildings, underused buildings and unlocking the full potential of the marketplace.
Solutions could include the use of underused spaces for start-ups and small businesses and maintenance of heritage assets to contribute to the cultural and economic offer of the town. Also, improvements to the marketplace could include diversification of retail and hospitality, improved parking and transport, and increased events and leisure options.
Our findings
A number of engagement and consultations in Richmond provided us with valuable feedback from the community. Data was gathered from themed sessions with stakeholders, targeted sessions with young people, drop-in events for residents and the business community, walk-arounds conducted in the town centre and on the trading estate, and an online survey. Strengths and challenges of the town were identified, as well as suitable themes for the Town Investment Plan.
Key themes identified for the Richmond Town Investment Plan are:
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environment: built, green and blue
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employment, business and tourism
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culture heritage and events
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health and wellbeing
- community support