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28
Jan
What are the plans for Ripon's iconic telephone kiosks?
Rural communities often use them as libraries where people can share books, but what plan does Ripon City Council have for the telephone kiosks now in its ownership?
The four red boxes, three of which have had their handsets removed, stand in line on Ripon Market Square like soldiers on sentry duty.
One remains the responsibility of British Telecom and is still operational for people who do not have mobile phones.
Potential future uses for the other three were discussed at last week's full city council meeting, where proposals put forward by leader Andrew Williams were supported by members.
He said:
In view of the fact that Fountains Church wanted the kiosks, but graciously withdrew from discussions with BT when we advised them that we had plans for them, I recommend that the city council partners with the church to seek a community use for one of the former telephone boxes.
We will also liaise with Ripon BID on the ways that a kiosk can be used as a visitor information point at times when the Tourist Information Centre is closed.
I also propose that we explore the possibility of installing a penny press machine in the third kiosk, where people coming to Ripon can purchase a momento of their vsit to the city.
As well as adding to the visitor experience, the manchine would generate revenue that can be used to pay for the maintenance of the kiosks.
The classically designed kiosks, with their signature domed roofs, have been located on the eastern side of Market Square for decades and were listed in June 1987 by English Heritage.
Designed by architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, to mark the Silver Jubilee of King George V in 1935, the K6 kiosks are iconic structures still seen in many places across the UK.
Richard Taylor, co-chair of heritage watchdog Ripon Civic Society, who has taken a keen interest in them, told the Stray Ferret:
It is rare to have a grouping of four telephone kiosks of this vintage – particularly in a city of Ripon’s size.
They stand in close proximity to the cabmen’s shelter – another grade II listed building – and together they are part of Ripon’s heritage and are of special architectural interest.
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