#RichmondShops: Join us to investigate trade in Richmond and Catterick

Shopping in Richmond is a topic that’s never far from the headlines here at The Richmond Noticeboard. Whether it’s conversations about traders moving on, shutting up or starting out with an innovative new venture, the retail health of the town seems to be one of those topics which everyone’s got an opinion about.

But facts have often been light on the ground. So we’re going to take an in-depth look at the issues surrounding the town’s shopping future – and we’re inviting you to take part.

To kick things off, we are partnering with the journalism department at Darlington College for a dedicated ‘newsday’ looking at the issue. On Friday December 4, a group of students from the college will be be carrying out interviews, they’ll be filming, photographing, recording, tweeting, sharing and thoroughly exploring the issues – here in Richmond and in Catterick Garrison.

Now that the Garrison shopping centre is open – with some big store household names evident – what is the future for Richmond’s shops? Does the town need to reinvent itself to compete? Should there be some sort of assistance for local traders? Or maybe you feel the two centres serve very different functions and communities?

Whatever your view, if you have anything to say on the issue we’d love to hear from you – the students and Richmond Noticeboard will be based at the town’s newest cafe and workshop space – Jacalou Junction during the day.

You can pop in there during the morning, tweet us (in advance or on the day) using the hashtag #RichmondShops, or drop us an email to RichmondNoticeboardATgmail.com. Please include a phone number so that we can get back in touch with you.