Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
11
Jun
Ripon in line for £1 million Market Square makeover
Ripon's historic Market Square could be in line for a £1 million makeover to level up the surface and make it safe for all users.
The roads around the square were improved late last year and early this year.
Now the square itself could be upgraded.
City council leader Andrew Williams told the Stray Ferret:
North Yorkshire Council engineers will carry out test drilling on the square this summer to obtain ground stablility information and if this proves favourable, they will draw up plans for a comprehensive resurfacing scheme.
From initial meetings with officers, I understand that the cost could be up to £1 million and it would be paid for by North Yorkshire.
He added:
Since stone sets were first laid 25 years ago the surface has, through usage, become cracked and uneven in places and a number of temporary repairs have been carried out.
Following the resurfacing of the roads around Market Square, paying attention to the square itself is a logical next step as we want to ensure that the city centre is as safe as possible for pedestrians, motorists, cyclists and cyclists.
If the scheme receives the green light, Cllr Williams said heritage materials, like the existing stone sets, would be used rather than tarmac.
Obelisk lighting
While the city council awaits the outcome of the test drilling, it won't have to wait long for another enhancement on Market Square.
The obelisk, which has dominated the city centre since 1702, is to be floodit once more.
Cllr Williams said:
Harrogate Borough Council did not carry out repairs on the floodlights when they stopped working, but North Yorkshire Council has new lights on order for installation later this month.
As well as adding to the spectacle of the obelisk, the extra light will improve safety on the square.
0