Richmond Council has unveiled major plans to transform its biggest town centre with a new public square, free play area, and greenery. The £1.5 million proposals aim to launch four key projects as part of a new vision for Richmond town centre in South West London.
Key Projects in the Plan
The plans include turning Whittaker Square and Avenue into a thriving public space for small-scale events, markets, and performances, at an estimated cost of £250,000. The council intends to install seating and plants while reclaiming some parking space to address the lack of a dedicated town square.
A central children's play area is budgeted at £150,000 to make the town centre more family-friendly. Additionally, £220,000 has been allocated to improve navigation with new signs, totems, information boards, and local trails across the town centre and riverside.
George Street is proposed to become a pedestrian-friendly standout area with extra seating and greenery. The council has set aside £200,000 for detailed modelling to finalize these proposals, with further costs expected for implementation.
Timeline and Funding
The council plans to carry out further development and consultation with residents and businesses before confirming detailed costs. The total budget is £1.5 million, but overall costs are expected to be higher once George Street improvements are finalized, requiring additional funding. Work is expected to be completed by 2028 if approved.
A council report noted that while Richmond is a popular tourist attraction, it faces national high street challenges. The report stated: "A clear vision, combined with a grounded, incremental action plan has been developed to ensure the town continues to thrive."
Long-Term Vision
The wider vision includes medium- to long-term projects such as regular pedestrianisation of the high street, reducing Duke Lane to a single lane, removing King Street parking, and turning Old Palace Lane into a pocket park. Other ideas include floating features on the River Thames, improving Richmond Green, converting the library into a youth hub, tackling empty shops, and upgrading the space outside Richmond Station.
The council's Finance Committee will vote on advancing the four priority projects on June 22.
