Richmond upon Thames is set to launch a 'Fixery' repair hub at Grove Gardens Chapel in March 2026, aiming to promote a circular economy within the borough.
The initiative, part of the council's broader Climate and Nature Strategy, will operate as a 12-month trial to assess the viability of a permanent Circular Economy Hub. The hub will offer residents a space to repair, swap, and reuse items, fostering skills and knowledge in sustainable practices. Discussions are ongoing to include additional circular economy and repair/reuse options in site operations.
Grove Gardens Chapel was chosen as the ideal location due to its availability, ample space, and existing relationship with partner organisation Habitats & Heritage. The council also noted the location's circularity, as the chapel, disused since the 1960s, is being repurposed for a new community function. Council officers are also determining whether it would be possible to provide in-kind or financial support to the Burial Ground Trust for access and usage of the site for Circular Economy related activity.
The 'Fixery' will provide repair services for electricals, textiles, and bikes through partnerships with Twickenham Repair Café and Dr Bike. Additionally, the hub will feature resale of second-hand items via commercial partners like Loved Before, and host clothes swaps, with potential expansion to school uniform and sports equipment exchanges. A refreshments stand is also planned to enhance the social aspect of the hub.
The Richmond Burial Ground Trust discussed the proposal at a meeting on Wednesday 10 December 2025, where they were asked to note the report on the Circular Economy Hub project, provide feedback, and support the use of the Richmond Burial Ground site for related activities. The Public Reports Pack provided details on the management of the Burial Ground site in relation to the proposed activities.
Habitats & Heritage has advised that the hub will not negatively impact biodiversity. The area near the Monkey Puzzle tree will be cleared of overgrowth to accommodate temporary uses like the Dr Bike stand. Council officers are exploring potential in-kind or financial support for the Burial Ground Trust regarding site access and usage for circular economy activities.
The Circular Economy Hub directly supports action 15 of the 2025 Action Plan, which focuses on creating infrastructure for a zero-waste economy. A waste management plan will be implemented to manage waste and recycling, limiting any detrimental impact on the surrounding green area. Traffic flow to the site in the form of vehicles and bicycles will be monitored and reviewed by site staff and Council staff to ensure this can be appropriately managed, with residents in the direct local area engaged throughout operations to inform site management. These measures aim to mitigate potential negative impacts on the Richmond Burial Ground.
Biodiversity will be a key consideration, with plans to enhance information boards to educate residents on local species and encourage support for native wildlife. Usage of the site, including the wider Richmond Burial Ground, will be monitored through visitor number recording and user feedback. An update and impact report will be provided to the Richmond Burial Ground Trust 6 months into the pilot project and at the end of the pilot project period to ensure that the Trust is kept updated on the project.