ONE of the four bidders hoping for permission to develop Richmond's former railway station has made the details of his proposal public.

Richmondshire District Council has called a public meeting at the town hall next week and had invited each developer to outline their own project.

However, former Army officer Robin Steel said he had already struck up a partnership with local 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 on Wednesday, he has taken the decision to unveil the details early.

Mr Steel's plan 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 laundry requirements

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

* A health centre, concentrating on alternative treatments, such as reflexology

* A classroom unit suitable for evening classes

* A railway museum.

"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,'' he said.

Meanwhile, the Richmond Station Group - formed to lead objections when tentative plans were floated to use the building as a music venue - is still urging anyone concerned about the old railway station to be sure they attend next week'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.'