A STUDY has begun which it is hoped will boost the fortunes of Richmond and the Swale Valley.

The Richmond Swale Valley Initiative, the brainchild of Richmondshire District Council and the Countryside Agency, has appointed consultants to carry out a survey which is thought to be the first of its kind in the country.

The team from Chris Blandford Associates will be looking at ways of harnessing the natural and historic assets of the town, including a section of the riverside between Round Howe and Easby.

The study has received £40,000 from the Countryside Agency and the Millennium Trust.

It will be managed by a steering group representing the town, district and county councils, the Town Centre Forum, Richmond Partnership, Richmond Civic Society and the Countryside Agency.

The consultants will work with the steering group and other representatives to establish sustainable ways of developing, managing and promoting Richmond and the Swale Valley for the future.

District council leader John Blackie said: "This is an exciting and innovative project which will help us forge a better future for the town, especially after the setbacks of last year's foot and mouth crisis.

"If successful, it could also form a blueprint for heritage-led economic regeneration, applicable to many other market towns across the country."

The project manager for the consultants, Dominic Watkins, said: "Richmond is easily one of Britain's top historic market towns with so many outstanding features.

"We hope to be able to work with the local community to improve or conserve these assets and find ways of making them more attractive to both residents and tourists alike."

"We have already touched on a range of issues, including the town's built fabric, making the river more accessible and improving transport and footpaths."

The consultants will also be running workshops, seminars and other activities so that a wider range of local groups and organisations can make suggestions.