THE future of Richmond's former railway station is hanging in the balance once again.

Only 18 months ago, it seemed Richmondshire District Council was poised to sell the building, with four consortiums in the bidding.

However, none of the proposals were viable, and the Friends of Richmond Station have come up with a project to turn the building into a community resource.

The local authority agreed not to consider any other offers until this month, and consultants were called in to conduct a feasibility study.

The proposals announced at the end of last month included a cinema, cafe or restaurant, creche, a performance and picnic area, meeting rooms and offices, and a visitor attraction promoting local food.

However, the council is yet to decide if it will continue to back the trust or if it will resume the hunt for a buyer.

The authority is due to debate the feasibility study at a meeting in Richmond on Tuesday.