Richmond Council has approved £1.5 million plans to revitalise the town centre, with four key projects aimed at creating a vibrant destination. The decision was made at a finance committee meeting on June 22, following warnings that 'standing still is not an option.'
Four priority projects approved
The plans include transforming Whittaker Square and Avenue into a thriving public space for small-scale events, markets, and performances, with a budget of £250,000. The council will install seating, plants, and reclaim some parking space to address the lack of a 'town square' destination. A children's play area on Little Green is allocated £150,000 to make the area more family-friendly. Another £220,000 will improve navigation across the town centre and riverside with new signs, totems, information boards, and local trails. Additionally, £200,000 is set aside for detailed modelling to finalise proposals for transforming George Street into a pedestrian-friendly space with extra seating and greenery.
Community feedback and concerns
Residents expressed support for the overall vision but raised concerns. Pam Fleming from the Richmond Society called for better community policing and public toilets. Vivien Harris, chair of Friends of Richmond Green, objected to the play area on Little Green, suggesting an empty unit instead. Councillors assured that further work, detailed costings, and extensive consultation would occur before delivery.
Funding and timeline
The total budget is £1.5 million, but overall costs are expected to be higher once George Street improvements are finalised, requiring additional funding. The council expects to complete the works by 2028 if fully approved. Lib Dem councillor Katie Mansfield said: 'People's expectations and shopping habits have changed and our town centre must adapt if it's going to thrive in future. Standing still is not an option.'
Long-term vision
Other long-term projects include regular pedestrianisation of the high street, reducing Duke Lane to a single lane, removing parking from King Street, and turning Old Palace Lane into a pocket park. Floating features on the River Thames, improvements to Richmond Green, a youth hub at the lending library, tackling empty shops, and upgrading the space outside Richmond Station are also planned. Nazeya Hussain, executive director of growth and place, said the vision aims 'to ensure we are still moving forward by not sitting on our laurels, but incrementally improving the public realm and ensuring the vibrancy of our town centre into the future.'
