Proposals for Ripon Town Hall to be transferred to city

If approved, the plans would see Ripon Town Hall handed from North Yorkshire Council to Ripon City Council through a 99-year lease for a nominal rent of £1 per year.

Members of North Yorkshire Council’s executive are set to discuss the plans on Tuesday, April 21.

Councillor Gareth Dadd, deputy leader of North Yorkshire Council, said: "In 2023 we made a commitment to our communities to be the most local large council in England.

"Handing power and responsibility to our communities where appropriate was at the heart of this ambition, and this proposal would be a positive step along that path."

The plan aims to provide benefits for the community, local economy and heritage of the city, while reducing ongoing running costs for North Yorkshire Council.

Mr Dadd said: "By handing over responsibility for Ripon Town Hall to the City Council there is an opportunity for the building to once again become a focal point for both residents and tourists and in turn help to revitalise the centre of this historic city."

Ripon City Council has not finalised its plans for the hall, but its expression of interest stated it would like to reopen the ornate council chamber as a venue for weddings and events, market unused spaces for community use, and improve accessibility throughout the building.

The transfer would also enable Ripon City Council to undertake a full feasibility study and options appraisal to guide future improvements, including preserving the building’s heritage features.

As part of the proposed agreement, North Yorkshire Council would provide £55,000 in initial funding, continue to pay business rates for 2026/27, and help to secure further external investment.

Existing tenants, including the Ripon and District Amateur Radio Society and current office users, would continue to be accommodated.

Councillor Barbara Brodigan, Mayor of Ripon and a representative for Ripon Ure Bank and Spa on North Yorkshire Council, called the proposal "a pioneering initiative."

She said: "This would be a proud step forward for Ripon, ensuring that decisions about the Town Hall are made by those who understand our city best and are most closely connected to its residents.

"Ripon is leading the way, and I am confident this example of handing down responsibility will inspire other communities to take greater ownership of their valued local assets."

Councillor Andrew Williams, who represents Ripon Minster and Moorside on North Yorkshire Council, has played a key role in the discussions.

He said: "Ripon Town Hall has suffered from a long period without investment prior to formation of North Yorkshire Council, leaving this historic building a shadow of what it once was.

"If approved, the transfer of Ripon Town Hall to the management of Ripon City Council will open up new opportunities to secure external investment, bring the building back to life and ensuring it once again makes a positive contribution to the city."

Ripon Town Hall, built in 1799, was originally private assembly rooms.

It was gifted to the city in the 1890s by the Marquess of Granby.