Plans for ‘unique venue for business’ at York’s Guildhall complex under spotlight

PLANS to transform York’s Guildhall complex into a “state-of-the-art venue for business” are to be considered by city planning chiefs next week.

The proposals aim to transform the Guildhall complex and ensure the future viability of one of York’s most significant buildings through the creation of a vibrant business and civic venue.

Plans also include a restaurant development and public access to the riverside, maximising its economic use, heritage appeal and public access.

Cllr Chris Steward, executive member for finance and performance at City of York Council, 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.

“We’ve held a number of public events on the scheme to-date and have welcomed the views of residents and businesses, who have helped to input into the final design.”

The council’s executive agreed the proposals at a public meeting in July last year.

The scheme will now go through the normal planning processes for determination by the planning committee on January 19.

If approved, the work is expected to start later this year with a completion by late 2018.

Plans will continue to see the council retaining the use of the council chamber for full council meetings and the Guildhall for key civic and public events.