Conservation project begins on part of York’s medieval walls

Conservation works on part of York’s medieval walls are due to start today

City of York Council is one of only a handful of local authorities which has an in-house stonemason’s team, who will be carrying out the works from today (Monday 16 June) for up to 6 months.

This includes preserving the lead and timber covering of Bootham Bar’s roof, which has been leaking intermittently.

Bootham Bar sits on the site of the Porta Principalis Dextra, a gateway to the legionary fortress dating back to 72AD.

The team will be conserving the principal timber structures by stripping out more modern elements to preserve the more historical parts of the timbers.

Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member at City of York Council, said: “We’re one of only few of local authorities with an in-house stonemason’s team. They will be applying their craft and skills to Bootham Bar over the next few months, maintaining the ancient gateway and preserving our mediaeval walls for the generations to come.

“We’re working closely with businesses in the area to ensure that any disruption to kept a minimum and to support them where possible. This project is exactly the type of thing that would financially benefit from our upcoming Tap and Donate scheme.”

Bootham Bar will be wrapped in scaffolding which will require a road closure, just at the section of the walls on High Petergate.

This section of road which runs through Bootham Bar, will be closed to all users. A diversion for vehicles and cyclists will be in place via Duncombe Place. To support local businesses during this period, access will be provided at all times for vehicles and cyclists to facilitate deliveries

Pedestrians will be able to continue to use the pedestrian arch under Bootham Bar and this will remain open throughout the duration of the works. A temporary ramp will be but in place for those using wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

This project will cost circa £300,000, funded from the council’s capital programme.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.