A JOINT venture to raise £60,000 to restore Richmond's obelisk is to be explored.

Richmondshire district planning committee agreed to approach the town council to explore the possibility of a partnership to attract grant aid for the scheme.

The 18th century obelisk was surveyed by consultants as part of a programme to assess the condition of district council-owned historic structures in the town.

Findings showed it was in urgent need of re-pointing and other restoration, including work on the decaying ironwork.

The consultants also suggested an extra plinth at the base, which would mean slight realignment of the tarmac road. Members agreed the work should be carried out in the next financial year if funding could be found.

Coun John Harris, who is also mayor of Richmond, said the grade II* listed obelisk was a central feature in Richmond and work should begin as soon as possible.

A link with the town council could be successful because it was eligible for Yorventure funding, while the district council was not.

English Heritage is to be consulted on the work because of its expertise and likely involvement in the project.

The grade II* listed grandstand at the former Richmond racecourse was also surveyed, with a recommendation it be preserved as a managed ruin. Other options included demolition or restoration at a prohibitive cost of £150,000.

Other listed structures surveyed included the "bar," part of the old town wall, which is recommended for repairs totalling £18,000, the friary postern, which needs £5,000 of re-pointing, and Willance's leap monument, where re-pointing, painting of railings and clearing of weeds would total £500.

English Heritage is to be consulted on all these possible projects and a further report is to go to the planning committee