Guildhall restoration project hit by further delays and rising costs

A MULTI-MILLION pound restoration of civic buildings dating back to the 15th century in the heart of York has been delayed again in the wake of a succession of issues blighting the complex construction project.

Work on the £20m project to transform the Guildhall began in autumn 2019, but progress has been hit by repeated delays.

It was hoped that works on the Grade I, II* and II listed buildings would be completed last year, but the finish date has now slipped back further into early next month.

The Guildhall was the home of York Council until 2013, when the local authority moved to its new headquarters in West Offices, close to the city’s railway station.

Council documents have revealed the cost of the project of the Guildhall’s restoration has risen due to the delays.

Setbacks have been caused by problems ranging from high river levels and a shortage of materials due to Covid-19 affecting supply chains, to the discovery of historic human remains.

A report to be considered by the council’s executive on Monday has revealed the most recent delay was caused by problems with a new electricity supply, which has only just been made available.

Issues arose with securing the necessary agreements from adjoining owners as well as installing electricity meters.

The costs associated with the additional works “to complete the project to the required standard are proportionate”, the report adds. A full report outlining

the additional costs is now being drawn up.

The University of York has already signed a 15-year lease for the building, and plans to turn it into a hub for entrepreneurs, start-up businesses and events run by the York Science Park.

The site will also feature a cafe, a restaurant, offices, meeting rooms and conference space.

The council report adds: “At this time the project team remains focused on completing the project, which is progressing well towards completion.

Plans are being put in place to provide opportunities for the building to be opened up on completion, so the extent of the transformation and the value of the investment can be fully appreciated.”

Situated in the heart of York on the banks of the River Ouse, the Guildhall has been the venue for defining moments in the city’s history.

Richard III was entertained in the building in 1483 and the hall was the venue for the trial of Margaret Clitherow, the Catholic saint, who was crushed to death in 1586 for harbouring priests.

The Guildhall was also where a ransom of £200,000 was counted before being given to the Scots in payment for the release of Charles I in 1647 during the English Civil War.

The costs to complete the project are proportionate. Report to senior councillors at York Council.