Readers’ Letters: Ripon Cathedral’s annexe plan is a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’

Readers’ Letters is a free weekly column giving you the chance to have your say on issues affecting the Harrogate district. It is an opinion column and does not reflect the views of the Stray Ferret. Send your views to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk.

The Stray Ferret receives letters on the Ripon Cathedral annexe plan most weeks. This week, we have a letter from a supporter who believes the project would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Ripon Cathedral, the city’s oldest building and a landmark for miles around, attracts 110,000 visitors annually and holds over 120 services each month. However, its future sustainability and ability to support Ripon’s economy require overcoming significant limitations through the provision of modern facilities.

The proposed new building will address urgent needs, including toilets, storage, and improved spaces for community use. Currently, visitors and worshippers must rely on inadequate public facilities across Minster Road, which also disrupts pedestrian connectivity. The new development will create a direct link to the city centre, improve accessibility, and enhance the cathedral precinct.

This proposal is fully aligned with the Ripon Neighbourhood Plan (RNP), which highlights the cathedral’s pivotal role in the city’s economy and heritage. Policy C1 of the RNP specifically calls for enhanced visitor facilities, better pedestrian links, and improved integration of the cathedral precinct with the city centre. By creating a safer, more accessible public realm and a beautiful Cathedral Quarter, the project fulfils the RNP’s vision of strengthening Ripon as a vibrant and welcoming destination.

The plan also addresses key RNP objectives, such as reducing traffic within the precinct, enhancing green spaces, and preserving historic views. In doing so, the development will not only support the cathedral’s operational needs but also promote civic pride and provide an improved public environment for residents and visitors alike.

This project represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure the cathedral’s future while enhancing Ripon’s economy and public spaces.

Mick Stanley, Ripon 

Do you have an opinion on the Harrogate district? Email us at letters@thestrayferret.co.uk. Please include your name and approximate location details. Limit your letters to 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

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