Archeological site at former prison to be opened to public
AN ARCHEOLOGICAL dig at the site of Northallerton’s former prison is to be opened to the public before redevelopment work begins.
The York Archaeological Trust (YAT) is spending two weeks excavating an area close to the listed buildings and the old courthouse wall, after previous digs uncovered the foundations of an old treadmill and kitchen chimney.
Archeologists are now undertaking final exploratory works, and will open up the 3.5 acre sire to the public on Saturday, July 14.
Over recent months, the trust has been looking for evidence of early life at the prison, when officers and prisoners all lived at the complex, and when the famous treadmills were used for punishments.
Toby Kendall, from the YAT, said: “The site has already revealed an amazing history so we are looking forward to seeing what else is buried here.
“We hope to open up the hoardings during this phase of digging so people can watch us at work – and we will be here at the open day to talk to local people about our work.”
The site is being redeveloped by the Central Northallerton Development Company Ltd – a partnership between Hambleton District Council and Wykeland Group.
Plans for the site are currently on display at the Civic Centre in Northallerton and include retail, restaurant, cinema, digital hub and public open space.
They are expected to be submitted for planning permission later this summer.