MORE than 40 projects have been identified to revive and regenerate Richmond.

They include detailed plans to promote sustainable tourism and develop the town's role for shopping and business.

In the longer-term there is a plan to harness the power of the river Swale to light up the town.

The Richmond Swale Valley Initiative has been described as an entirely new approach to regeneration.

The town was chosen by the Countryside Agency as the first for a pioneering study because of its rich history and landscape.

Over the last year consultants have been working with more than 40 local and regional groups to research and discuss ways to unlock those assets to help regenerate the town.

Local consultations have been held and the town will be using the results of the study to boost its recovery. It will also be looking to the Heritage Lottery, Defra and Europe for funding. Town manager Colin Grant said: "The study will act as the key for unlocking significant new resources for the benefit of the town and surrounding areas."

Ideas that have been given high priority include a new transport network and improvements to the town's social needs, including providing crche and childcare facilities and supporting the needs and interests of the young and old.

There are projects to raise awareness of the town's heritage assets and support for the further development of local nightlife - using the re-opening of the restored Georgian Theatre Royal as a centrepiece.

Other ideas include making Richmond a centre for outdoor pursuits.