Local people will play a central role in shaping the future of Ripon’s historic town hall with the city's newly elected mayor suggesting it should be used as a blueprint for future projects across North Yorkshire.
The transfer of Ripon Town Hall to the city council was approved last month (April), when our members agreed a 99‑year lease of the Grade II listed building for a peppercorn rent of £1 per year.
The landmark venue in the Market Place dates from 1799 and was gifted to the city in the 1890s by the Marquess of Granby, having previously operated as private assembly rooms.
The move to hand over the reins demonstrates our commitment to enabling town and parish councils, as well as community groups, to take greater control over local assets and make decisions that best reflect local priorities.
Cllr Andrew Williams took over as the Mayor of Ripon at the beginning of this month (May). The elected member for Ripon Minster and Moorside division, he has played a key role in discussions with the authority for the transfer.
He said: “This handover brings with it a significant amount of work, but it is an exciting opportunity.
“Our first step will be to invite residents to view the whole site and share their ideas on how it could be used. We will then move forward with appointing consultants to develop a robust business plan.”
Thanking all those involved, Cllr Williams said that while the process had taken time, the outcome was extremely positive for the city.
He said: “There is a real mixture of relief and optimism at this moment. After more than three years of making the case and working through the detail, it is reassuring to see that perseverance has paid off.
“The process has also been a learning curve, and we hope it will help pave the way for future applications to be handled more swiftly.
“We would strongly encourage other local communities to consider similar opportunities, using redundant public buildings to regenerate their areas and breathe new life into valued local assets.”
Council leader, Cllr Carl Les, and executive member for corporate services, Cllr Heather Phillips, joined Cllr Williams and Mayoress of Ripon, Cllr Jackie Crozier for a tour of the venue.
Cllr Les said: “This transfer reflects our clear commitment to empowering local councils and communities to take greater control over important local assets.
“Ripon Town Hall is a historic building, and placing its future in local hands gives it the best opportunity to be preserved, revitalised and used in a way that meets local needs.
“We look forward to continuing to support Ripon City Council as it works with residents to unlock the long‑term potential of this landmark building for the benefit of the city.”
Cllr Phillips said: “It is important that buildings like this are managed in a way that is sustainable, responsible and delivers value for local communities.
“Working closely with Ripon City Council, we are confident the town hall will be cared for appropriately and developed with a clear vision for its future, while safeguarding its heritage.
“This partnership approach helps ensure important buildings are put to best use and continue to serve their communities for generations to come.”
As part of the agreement, we will provide £55,000 in initial funding, continue to pay business rates for 2026/27, and support efforts to secure further external investment.
Existing tenants - including the Ripon and District Amateur Radio Society and current office users - will continue to be accommodated.