Crane to be installed on York's river front as part of £20m Guildhall works

Restoration works began at the historic site in September – six years after plans to transform the landmark were first put forward in 2013.

Councillors are set to hear an update on progress at the Guildhall at a meeting on Thursday.

Council leader Cllr Keith Aspden’s report for the meeting says: “Works to restore the historic Guildhall are now underway.

“Vinci, the contractor appointed to carry out the restoration works, are now making preparations to install a crane at their river site.

“These works mark the first major restoration to the Guildhall in 60 years and in turn, will restore the Guildhall’s role at the heart of York’s civic, social and economic life.

Stop parking charges this Christmas weekend to help save our High Street shops: Andrew VineNew Archbishop of York announced by Downing Street“Once the works are completed, it will improve access to the building, providing residents a greater opportunity to step inside and see the Guildhall.

“Crucially, it is estimated that the Guildhall project will provide a £117m boost to our local economy by providing office space to give new companies room to grow in York.”

The £20 million renovation will turn the historic site into office space and conference rooms – while part of the south range is also being rebuilt to provide a cafe and a new riverside restaurant will be created on the north side of the site.

The Guildhall is expected to reopen in Spring 2021.

York Council discovered major structural problems with the riverside tower – including subsiding and cracking.

The building will also need to be stabilised through underpinning and the main roofs will be replaced to prevent further water damage.