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Radical plans for York’s historic Guildhall unveiled. What do you think?

by in Business, History, News

An artist's impression of the yard at the transformed Guildhall
A view over the yard at the transformed Guildhall
A view over the yard at the transformed Guildhall

This is how York’s historic Guildhall could look under plans to revitalise the landmark complex.

The pictures have been released ahead of an open day on Wednesday (August 3) when the public can view the vision and share their thoughts.

At the event residents will also be able to meet the project manager who will be able to provide more information about the scheme and answer any questions.

See the plans

York Guildhall

Wed Aug 3 @ 11am-2pm

Read more about the plans here

Business venue

How the new river front could look
How the new river front could look

In June the City of York Council executive approved the proposals for the Guildhall complex.

‘Transform an underused asset’ – Chris Steward
‘Transform an underused asset’ – Chris Steward
The aim is to ensure its future viability through the creation of a vibrant business and civic venue. It would be supported by commercial development on the riverside, maximising the economic use, heritage appeal and public access of the venue.

The plans incorporate offices with business club facilities and a restaurant, and would cost £12 million. However it is forecast to bring benefits to the city worth £66 million by 2030, through the creation of 120 high value jobs.

At the executive meeting councillors agreed to market of the restaurant unit with the aim of securing a pre-let agreement for a 25 year commercial lease.

They also gave the green light to start the procurement of a service contract for the operation of the business club and office venue.

‘Transform iconic buildings’

A view of the south section of the Guildhall
A view of the south section of the Guildhall as envisaged by the plans

Councillor Chris Steward, executive member for finance and performance, said:

The Guildhall complex is one of York’s most iconic buildings and these plans look to transform it from an underused asset to a unique venue for business which will bring significant economic benefit to the city of over £66m in Gross Value Added.

We welcome the views of residents on this scheme and hope they take the chance to see the proposals, meet the team and comment on detailed proposals outlining the future of York’s historic Guildhall.


A detailed business case will be taken to the full council in February 2017. If approved the work is expected to start mid 2017 with a completion by autumn 2018.

Full council meetings and key civic and public events would still be held in the council chamber.