A vision for Richmond town centre

Richmond town centre has long been held as an iconic destination – people from all over the world want to live here, work here and visit. We have a unique offering that others cannot compete with – history and heritage, stunning green, blue and built spaces, top-class retail and hospitality, all in close proximity to central London.

But Richmond, like many other town centres, is seeing the effects of changing public habits like online shopping, home working and evolving modes of transport, as well as changing health, social and safety needs.

Why we need a vision

This type of project is called ‘place-shaping’. Successful place-shaping enables better local decision-making and helps everyone involved in a place work towards a common goal, with a common set of values.

This project has set out to redefine the Richmond town centre’s identity and look at how we positively influence its reputation and profile, increasing recognition; creating desire and demand; and instilling confidence and excitement. It will help build civic pride - making local residents feel good about Richmond town centre; attract new people to live and work here; drive economic growth and attracting further investment; retain young people in the area and encouraging local people to spend more time and money in the town centre.

If we want to avoid Richmond losing its vibrancy, we need to adapt. We need to look to the future and make sure it’s a place that people want to spend time. A place that's convenient, social, safe, inclusive, clean, healthy and fun for everyone. A vibrant place for many years to come.

View the Richmond town centre vision map.

How we are doing this

We have developed a vision for Richmond town centre, which captures the long-term purpose and desired future for the area. It came from the people who live and work here every day and expresses Richmond town centre’s aspirations for recognition, bringing to life the vibrant experiences we want residents and visitors to for many years to come.

We have also identified three pillars are intended to deepen the town’s unique character by blending local distinctiveness with bold ambition. These pillars offer a clear sense of direction, helping Richmond stand out by enhancing its core identity, building community pride, and guiding transformative change in the town centre.

We started the project with an engagement exercise, where a team of specialist architects, designers and urban researchers have evaluated how the town centre is working for all, using data, working with community partners, and speaking to local people, businesses, and workers about their experiences. 

• View the Richmond Town Centre Vision report

Project timeline

Key dates and milestones for the project:

• August to October 2023 - Data gathering and initial engagement processes
• January 2024 - Town centre engagement study published
• April 2024 - Production a vision for the town centre
• January 2025 - Richmond town centre vision published
• 2025 - Activation and delivery plan created for the town centre

Vision

We have a vision for the future. Richmond will be a vibrant, inclusive town centre that seamlessly blends heritage with innovation, embodying both the charm of a market town and the vitality of a global city.

It will serve as a green sanctuary within London, where community, creativity, and sustainability converge. Richmond will inspire residents and visitors alike to explore, relax, and connect, creating a place that enriches lives and fosters a culture of environmental and social responsibility.

Our ambition is simple. Richmond aspires to be recognised as London’s leading example of sustainable urban community, known for its environmental stewardship, where the sounds of birds replace the noise of traffic, and clean air and pedestrianised spaces create a peaceful retreat. Richmond will be celebrated for its commitment to wellbeing, inclusivity, and a lively yet tranquil atmosphere that is both distinctive and welcoming.

Clean waters in the Thames, green infrastructure that prioritises active travel, and thriving independent retailers along the high street, Richmond will be known as a beacon of sustainability and a hub of cultural innovation. It aims to set a standard for integrating natural beauty with urban vibrancy, where diverse experiences— from arts festivals to green initiatives— support a diverse, flourishing community. Key spaces will foster community through environmental practices and accessible design, becoming a place where nature, heritage, and commerce converge.

Picture this - Laughter echoes from families exploring interactive public art, while children play in lush green spaces lining the riverside. People connect with nature through skateable public realm, child-friendly bug hotel workshops, and evening river dips at community saunas. Protected parks and biodiverse corridors provide clean, peaceful escapes, while green pedestrian walkways and active travel routes invite exploration. Underutilised buildings have been reimagined into cosy cinemas, artist studios, and bustling markets. Independent shops spill out onto pedestrianised streets, buzzing with locals and visitors, and young entrepreneurs showcase their crafts in spaces designed for creativity and discovery. As dusk settles, lights glow warmly over outdoor cafés and restaurants, and the gentle sounds of live music fill the evening, continuing Richmond’s legacy as a cultural beacon. It’s a place where everyone, from residents to visitors, can find a sense of belonging and leave inspired by Richmond’s vibrant blend of nature, history, and innovation.

Place-shaping pillars

Global City Energy Meets Market Town Charm

Richmond is a town of striking contrasts, where the charm of a market town meets the vibrancy of a global city. It offers the serenity of the countryside within the bustling energy of London. Richmond’s distinctive blend of green spaces, historic architecture, and the Lanes converge with a thriving technology scene to create a sense of cultural vitality. A hub for arts, independent retail, and creative spaces, Richmond fosters talent, celebrates its heritage, and inspires all who visit. Through dynamic cultural programming, partnerships, and a strong support for local businesses, Richmond promises a balanced, engaging experience for all.

Space To Breathe: Escapism, Exploration & Enrichment

Richmond is a welcoming escape from the fast pace London, offering relaxation, exploration, and enrichment through its blend of riverside views, green spaces, and cultural activities that merge leisure, nature, and heritage. Richmond balances an inviting, high-quality charm with inclusivity, fostering spaces for all ages and backgrounds. From parks to entrepreneurial ventures, it creates opportunities for youth, encourages wellness, and promotes community through arts, sports, and cultural experiences, leaving visitors inspired and connected. Richmond’s atmosphere encourages new adventures, learning, and lasting memories in a peaceful yet vibrant setting.

Natural Leaders: Champions of Environmental Action & Social Value

Richmond upon Thames is committed to being London’s greenest borough, inspired by its natural surroundings, from Royal parks to the Thames. As a “natural leader,” it embodies bold, proactive environmental stewardship, promoting biodiversity, health, and sustainable living. The town is dedicated to prioritising people over traffic and sustainability over convenience, setting ambitious goals to address climate action, traffic, and air quality. Richmond seeks to lead by example with innovative, people-centered solutions, strong community engagement, and partnerships. It embraces change and pushes boundaries, positioning itself as a model for environmental action and social value, both locally and across London.

Find out more about how to use the Richmond place-shaping vision. 

Get involved

Details of all public events will be published here and updated regularly, so check back for updates and make sure you have signed up to our newsletter, for all news and updates about the project.

Contact

If you have any queries about the project, email richmondtowncentre@richmond.gov.uk.