An historic building in York requires urgent repairs to protect it from the ravages of climate change.
The Assembly Rooms on Blake Street, a Grade I listed Georgian public building needs “a series of repairs and minor improvements” according to planning documents.
“The phased works proposed in this application primarily relate to the renewing of roof coverings, flashings and water management, and are required to secure a watertight shell and protect the building and interiors, particularly in response to climate change.
“The works will provide an opportunity for a detailed inspection of roof timbers to identify any required repairs, and an opportunity to improve the rooflights and the insulation and ventilation of the roofs.
“Works are also proposed to repair damaged internal plasterwork and decoration in the South Anteroom, and to replace inappropriate materials from 1950s ceilings repairs.”
The Assembly Rooms are owned by York Conservation Trust, and currently home to the Ask Italian restaurant.
They were completed in 1732 by the Earl of Burlington, after £8,000 was raised to create a gathering place for the Georgian great and good.
“Burlington’s Assembly Rooms centre on the Great Assembly Room, which was adapted from Vitruvius’ design for an Egyptian Hall,” the planning documents explain.
You can read the full plans for the building here.