A RAFT of ideas on how a town can shrug off decades of malaise will go on show at the end of the month.

Although a popular tourist destination, Richmond's town centre has struggled commercially in recent years.

With more facilities opening at the camp, soldiers stationed at Catterick Garrison no longer have to make the three-mile trip to Richmond's shops.

The collapse of Mercury Bridge in the summer floods of 2000 is thought to have cost the town's traders another £1m in lost business while the foot-and-mouth disease crisis the following year further delayed recovery.

However, consultants Chris Blandford Associates have been working with Richmond Town Centre Forum and more than 40 other partners on a strategy for the future.

A two-week exhibition will open at the town hall on Friday, May 23, to give the public an opportunity to comment on the results of the Richmond Swale Valley Initiative.

The mission's project statement says: "Our historic town of Richmond will be appropriately revitalised to become an even more prosperous, sustainable, lively and accessible place for all residents, visitors, shoppers and businesses.

"The renaissance will build on Richmond and the Swale Valley's inherent strengths - its unique architectural, historical, natural and cultural heritage assets and the commitment of its communities.

"High-quality visitor experience, shops, services and heritage conservation management will underpin Richmond's growing reputation as one of the country's leading and most innovative historic market towns."

Floodlighting attractions at night, a more comprehensive public transport network, improvements to the town centre, broadband Internet connection and new uses for empty spaces are among almost 50 projects outlined in the exhibition.

It's hoped many of the objectives can be achieved within the next five years and the majority within 20, depending on grants from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and the National Lottery.

As well as the exhibition, details of the Richmond Swale Valley Initiative will be available at Richmond Library, Ken Warne's grocers in the market place and online at www.richmond.org.uk