A MAJOR project to repair and safeguard a much-loved beauty spot has been completed at a cost of £250,000.

The scheme was one of the most complex engineering projects to be prepared and managed by Richmondshire District Council's technical services team in recent years.

And a plaque has now been unveiled to mark the completion of the works at the Fosse picnic area beside the River Swale, in Richmond.

The engraved stone was unveiled at the beauty spot by the chairman of the authority, Councillor Campbell Dawson.

The work at the Fosse was part of a wider scheme, which was funded by the council, to ensure public safety and to make the picnic area more attractive.

Robbie Stubbs, the authority's clerk of works, said: "We built a new concrete retaining wall behind the existing stone wall, which was showing signs of dangerous cracking, and also increased the height of the parapet to ensure public safety."

However, during the excavations, a large underground vaulted chamber was discovered, believed to have formed part of the headrace that used to channel water to power an old paper mill, which used to stand on the banks of the river.

A temporary bridge had to be installed across the chamber to enable the works to continue without damaging the underground structure.

The chamber has now been resealed while the council decides on the best way to preserve what is regarded as an important part of Richmond's industrial past.

The area behind the wall has been relaid with York stone paving, and new picnic tables and litter bins have also been provided.

"This is one of Richmond's most outstanding natural beauty spots, and I am delighted with the renovations," said Coun Dawson.

"It has always been a popular place to visit, especially during the summer, and the improvements mean residents and visitors will continue to enjoy their visit to the Swale."