A proposal to transfer Ripon Town Hall to Ripon City Council will be considered by North Yorkshire Council’s executive next week.
A report due to be discussed on Tuesday (21st April), sets out plans for a 99-year lease of the Grade II listed building at a nominal rent of £1 per year.
The town hall, located in the city’s Market Place, dates from 1799 and was originally used as assembly rooms before being gifted to Ripon in the 1890s by the Marquess of Granby.
If approved in principle, the transfer would see Ripon City Council take on responsibility for the building. The authority has indicated it would explore options for future use, including reopening the council chamber for weddings and events, making space available for community use, and improving accessibility.
North Yorkshire Council said the proposal forms part of its wider approach to enabling greater local decision-making by town and parish councils and community groups.
The authority’s deputy leader and executive member for finance and resources, Cllr Gareth Dadd, 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.”
He 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.”
Under the proposals, North Yorkshire Council would provide £55,000 in initial funding, continue to pay business rates for 2026/27, and support efforts to secure external investment.
Existing tenants, including the Ripon and District Amateur Radio Society and office users, would continue to be accommodated.
Ripon City Council has not finalised its plans but has said it would undertake a feasibility study and options appraisal to guide future improvements, including the preservation of the building’s historic features.
The Mayor of Ripon City Council, Cllr Barbara Brodigan, said she was proud to support what she described as ‘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.”
Cllr Andrew Williams, the elected member for Ripon Minster and Moorside division on North Yorkshire Council, said he was hopeful of a positive outcome.
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.”
A decision is expected following discussion by the executive.
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