York is a very beautiful old city. But she’s also rather high maintenance.
And she’s having more touching up work done now than for many years.
Almost every street seems to have scaffolding in place – and that’s in addition to the long-term maintenance on the Minster. Here are a few we’ve spotted.
Bonding Warehouse
Work is underway to repair and renovate the Bonding Warehouse. Built in 1875, it was created to store wines and spirits while the tax duty was calculated. After the Second World War, it was only used by three companies, Rowntree’s, Terry’s and Boots. Later it became a restaurant, then offices and apartments.
Toft Green
The former Transit Motorcycles building is in the process of being demolished. Permission was approved for the work in 2022. A new building is being created with ten serviced apartments.
Bar Convent
One of the most extensive renovations is that at the Bar Convent on Blossom Street. Most of the building, which dates back to 1686, is shrouded in scaffolding. The restoration, costing £700,000, will involve the repair and redecoration of more than 280 windows, plus re-roofing.
Micklegate
Two separate renovations on York’s royal street. Number 68, home to Sharp Hairdressing, is having internal alterations on the first floor to add a new flat. Next door at number 70, the former Ken Spelman Booksellers is having work done in and out, including new doors and windows and terrace at the back.
Assembly Rooms
York’s famous Georgian Assembly Rooms, now home to pizza restaurant Ask, is undergoing a “a series of repairs and minor improvements”, to ensure the 1732 building remains watertight.
The Ivy
One of the more spectacular scaffolding jobs. The Ivy was granted permission to reinstate the original front entrance double doors in January 2022.
Stonegate
Major scaffolding on Stonegate as work is undertaken to repair the historic buildings on the street.
High Ousegate
York property developers the Helmsley Group are planning to turn the empty upper floors of a property in High Ousegate, now home to the Card Factory, into residential accommodation.
Coppergate
This long-empty four storey building, last occupied by a Ryman stationers, could soon house a glazed coffee shop to the ground floor, with offices above.