Council HQ escapes government cuts

The scheme to move most of the authority's operations to a central base by converting the historic West Offices – which were built in the 1840s as York's original railway station and station hotel – were thwarted when the site was granted listed building consent.

The council itself granted planning permission in June, almost two years after initial blueprints were abandoned following concerns from English Heritage.

The move should significantly cut accommodation costs. Having offices across the city has sapped finances as half the premises are leased and rents swallow up 1m a year.

The new headquarters project is expected to cost 43.8m and has escaped the Government's public sector cuts as it will be paid for by the sale of premises and savings on rent payments.