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14
Dec 2020
Ripon should be 'meeting place of choice' says Civic Society
Ripon Civic Society (RCS) has welcomed the move by Harrogate Borough Council to appoint consultants who will draw up a masterplan for the city.
RCS chair Christopher Hughes told the Stray Ferret:
The society believes that people with an informed knowledge of the city, its planning issues and opportunities, should play a key role in guiding Ripon’s future direction. The city has suffered this year with the pandemic, with both the Ripon Spa Hotel and the Old Deanery closing down.
With a fee of £85,000 for a 12-month contract, consultants will be tasked with devising an "inspiring and innovative" vision that will be at the heart of the Ripon Renewal Project.
The contract is due to start on January 10.
The move to develop a masterplan for the city comes at a time when future growth is on the horizon.
The major Barracks scheme known as Clotherholme will see Homes England deliver 1,300 homes in a number of phases on the outskirts of Ripon.
In the city centre, Ripon’s ancient Cathedral is planning its most significant development in centuries, with a £6 million extension, designed to provide modern facilities and additional space.
Mr Hughes pointed out:
He added:
Read more:
- Why are elves hiding in Ripon?
- £132,000 grants boost for Ripon nature reserve
- District's market traders lambast councillor's letter
The appointed consultants will have to set out “clear and robust” delivery timescales, funding options and a business case for Harrogate Borough Council to use to bid for money for projects.
The contract brief says:
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