Ripon Town Hall could be handed to city council in bid to revive historic landmark

Members of North Yorkshire Council’s executive will consider a report on Tuesday, April 21 outlining proposals to hand over ownership of Ripon Town Hall to Ripon City Council on a long-term 99-year lease for a peppercorn rent of £1 per year.

The Grade-II listed building, which sits prominently in the city’s Market Place, dates back to 1799 and was originally gifted to the city in the 1890s by the Marquess of Granby, having once served as private assembly rooms before becoming a civic focal point.

If given the go-ahead, the move would demonstrate the authority’s commitment to allow bodies such as the City Council along with town and parish councils and community groups to make their own decisions.

Councillor Gareth Dadd, North Yorkshire Council’s deputy leader and executive member for finance and resources, 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.

Councillor Dadd added: “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.”

While detailed plans are yet to be finalised, Ripon City Council has outlined ambitions to reopen the ornate council chamber as a wedding and events venue, bring underused spaces back into community use, and improve accessibility throughout the building.

The proposals would also allow the City Council to undertake a full feasibility study and options appraisal to shape future restoration work, including preserving the building’s heritage features.

As part of any deal, 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.

The Mayor of Ripon City Council, Councillor Barbara Brodigan, who represents Ripon Ure Bank and Spa on North Yorkshire Council, said she was proud to support what she said would be ‘a pioneering initiative’ if given the go-ahead.

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, the elected member for Ripon Minster and Moorside division on North Yorkshire Council who has been instrumental in the discussions, said he was hopeful of a positive conclusion when the matter was discussed.

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.”

The report can be viewed or downloaded as a PDF by clicking HERE.