Developers acquire historic former Institute site
York developers Grantside and North Star have formed a joint venture to buy a Grade II listed building on Clifford Street, in York city centre.
The intention is to bring the historic building back to life, following the closure of Kuda nightclub.
The 23,282 sq ft building has been acquired from BAE Systems Pension Fund and also houses the York Dungeon attraction, which will reopen once Covid restrictions are lifted. The former nightclub owners have been placed into administration and a new operator is now being sought.
Dating from the late 1800s, the former Institute is a prominent feature on Clifford Street.
Grantside founder and CEO, Steve Davis, said: “This is a significant city centre site well-known for its outstanding architecture.
“As a partnership of York developers, we know the building well, and we are thrilled to have secured this investment.
“Being based in York we understand the important need in York for nightlife venues to attract young people, students and clubbers and regenerate the city’s night-time economy as we recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We aim to bring the venue back to life with this use, as the building has amazing potential and will be marketed to suitable venue operators in order to boost the city’s night-time offer.”
