A PETITION has been launched to save a neglected garden with links to a town’s industrial past.

More than 100 people have signed the petition against Richmondshire District Council’s proposal to sell the old gasholder garden for development, describing it as an assault to the “integrity of Richmond’s open spaces.”

Located close to the River Swale waterfalls, the garden is often overlooked by visitors to the town. But for those who know it, it is a much-loved spot for picnics and peaceful reflection, as well as being a reminder of Richmond’s status as one of the first provincial towns in Europe to be lit by gas. The site owes its circular shape to the fact it once housed one of the town’s two gasholders.

The council is seeking the public’s views on the proposal but objectors believe a buyer has already been secured, and there are rumours a café will be built there.

Nick Reckert, who started the petition, said: “It is a lovely place by the side of the river which has been neglected by the district council for the obvious reason that they are short of money.

“I don’t believe selling that land is necessarily the answer. They have never actually promoted the garden and there are no signs encouraging people to use. It wouldn’t take much to improve it but if they build on it, it will be lost forever.”

A council spokesperson said the authority had issued a Section 123 notice to seek objections to the proposed disposal, adding: “We have received a number of objections, including the petition in question, and will consider all such submissions prior to making a final decision.

“The deadline for responses is the June 23 so we cannot make any further comment until after that date.”

To sign the petition, visit change.org/p/save-the-gas-holder-garden?