ONE of the four bidders hoping for permission to rejuvenate Richmond's former railway station has broken cover to confirm details of a proposal for the historic building.

Richmondshire District Council has called a public meeting at the Town Hall tomorrow night and has invited each developer to outline their own project.

However former Army officer Robin Steel has announced that he has already struck up a partnership with a leading building firm, Randall Orchard, who would co-ordinate the construction work.

And, although he still intends to promote his scheme along with his three rivals from 7pm tomorrow, he has made the decision to confirm the details early.

Mr Steel's vision for the phased redevelopment of the station includes:

* An Internet caf, attached to a shop selling computer equipment, as well as a separate licensed bistro.

* A launderette, which could deal with both commercial and domestic requirements.

* Shops selling antiques and paintings, sports equipment, wedding accessories, flowers and music CDs and tapes, as well as cash point.

* A health centre, concentrating on alternative treatments, including aromatherapy, reflexology and homeopathy.

* A classroom unit suitable for evening classes.

* A railway museum.

Mr Steel said: "I've got to know the building as I've been using the swimming pool a lot and I've often thought of all the things it could be used for; when I heard it was for sale, it just seemed too good an opportunity to miss."

Meanwhile, the Richmond Station Group - formed to lead objections after tentative plans had been floated to use the building as a music venue - is still urging anyone concerned about the old railway station to be sure they attend tomorrow's meeting.

"The building is for sale for £250,000, which is less than the value of many of the properties in the immediate vicinity," said spokesman Keith Byfield.

"This doesn't seem a fair price for one of the most important properties in the area.

"We believe Richmondshire District Council must retain control of the building and should therefore lease it on a normal business lease of around 21 years."