Court battle over York's '˜internationally important monument'

A York councillor has spoken of how he hopes the city's 'wonderful and internationally important' 13th century Clifford's Tower will be kept from development before a judicial review hearing.
By The Newsroom
Published 25th Apr 2017, 22:10 BST
Updated 9th May 2017, 18:26 BST
Clifford's Tower.Clifford's Tower.
Clifford's Tower.

Coun Johnny Hayes (Independent) asked for the review last year because he objects to approved plans by English Heritage to build a shop, café and visitor centre in the motte of the Grade I-listed York Castle remains.

After permission was granted in October, a petition against it was signed by 3,780 people and presented to the City of York Council and English Heritage.

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The hearing is due to take place at Leeds Crown Court on Wednesday, May 3 and the case’s outcome is expected on the same day. Judge Mr Justice Kerr will investigate whether planning procedure had been properly followed.

Coun Hayes said: “I applied for this Judicial Review as a York resident. Along with many other people I was very unhappy with the planning process that gave this development permission to build.

“I could not believe that such a wonderful and internationally important monument and local landmark could be treated in this way. I found the decision shocking and felt that I had no other option.”

English Heritage declined to comment.

Related topics:YorkEnglish HeritageIndependentCity of York Council