Land lease offer could be removed for scrapped Clifford’s Tower plans

COUNCILLORS ARE to reconsider an offer of leasing land around York’s famous Clifford’s Tower after English Heritage decided not to build a visitor’s centre at the base of the monument.

The land was originally set aside for the centre and surrounding plaza after York Council’s executive agreed to the deal once the charity had received planning permission.

While a report to the executive recommends removing the offer to lease council-owned land, it also suggests two other agreements remain in place to allow English Heritage to carry out “significant works required to safeguard and conserve” the tower and motte.

Council leader Ian Gillies also said the idea would address “concerns that English Heritage could still change their mind and build the visitor centre”. English Heritage last month re-thought its plans after facing public opposition and due to opportunities through the city’s Castle Gateway regeneration.

Coun Gillies said: “It is right that we revisit the land arrangements after English Heritage’s announcement. These proposals would address some residents’ concerns that English Heritage could still change their mind and build the visitor centre, while still allowing them to carry out important work to conserve this exceptionally important monument.”

The executive meets on Thursday next week.

Clifford’s Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views around York, is the last remaining part of the city’s castle.

Built originally on the orders of William I, the castle suffered a tumultuous early history before developing into a major fortification with extensive water defences.