A manifesto to establish Richmond as a 'Riverside Resort' with a transformed high street, cuts to through traffic and protection for its waterfront, has been unveiled.

The proposals have been published by The Richmond Society, which has been a guardian of the area's heritage for more than 60 years.

The views of the Society come as Richmond Borough Council is drawing up proposals for the future of high streets following a series of consultations with residents.

The Society argues: "Richmond should develop its profile as a picturesque destination of choice that is culturally rich, commercially competitive and adopts the principles of the ten-minute neighbourhood.

"A place where people feel happy to be and where the arts, culture, entertainment, hospitality, sport, leisure and social facilities can be enjoyed without the need to travel far from home."

The Society says: "We love Richmond, its heritage of fine buildings and beautiful open spaces, and we wish to ensure it is worthy of the love of those who come after us.

"As a riverside resort distinguished by location, history and unique features, Richmond should offer superior amenities."

In terms of specifics it will campaign to –

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• Preserve the Arcadian Thames by resisting a further commercialisation of the riverside by retail or hospitality. Support traditional riverside activities such as boat building.

• Reduce volume of non-local through-traffic from the town centre.

• Support boutiques and smaller, specialist shops which add charm and give Richmond its unique identity. The town's historic pedestrian alleys will provide a strong foundation for this.

• Establish a permanent police base in central Richmond to ensure people can live in safety and security.

• Reduce alcohol-related anti-social behaviour by limiting the increase and expansion of licensed premises in the centre.

The Society's chairman, Barry May, said: "Too often, people have said: 'We know what you are against, but what are you for?'"

"The aim is to ensure that Richmond can be enjoyed by the next generation at least as much as it is by this one."

He added: "As our Manifesto declares, we love Richmond, its heritage of fine buildings and beautiful open spaces, and we wish to ensure it is worthy of the love of those who come after us."

The Manifesto can be found in full here.

The patrons of the Society, which carries a lot of influence, are the BBC's Anita Anand, Professor Ian Bruce CBE, Baroness Ronny Van Dedem, Bamber Gascoigne CBE, Sir Trevor McDonald, and Lord Watson of Richmond.

The manifesto was launched on Thursday - October 14 - at the Society's Annual Awards for those who have made a distinguished contribution to Richmond.

The winner's plaque was presented by the Deputy Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, Cllr Suzette Nicholson, to the Vineyard Life Church for the renovation of its 19th century building as a centre for multiple uses ranging from a pre-school for girls to a food bank and a drop-in centre for the homeless, as well as for religious worship.