The multi-million-pound restoration of York’s Guildhall has been completed and is now ready to support local businesses and drive economic growth, the city council says.

Planning and Listed Building consent for the scheme was secured in 2017 by City of York Council, led by architects Burrell Foley Fischer.

Restoration and redevelopment of the Guildhall then began in September 2019, with the council appointed construction contractor, VINCI Construction UK, carrying out an extensive programme of works to refurbish the building.

Funding for the £21.7m restoration and redevelopment work was provided by City of York Council, York and North Yorkshire LEP and West Yorkshire Combined Authority through respective HMG Growth Deal contributions and the Getting Building Fund.

Following the restoration, the building will be leased to York Science Park (YSPL), a subsidiary of the University of York, helping to support local entrepreneurs and start-ups looking to grow.

Cllr Keith Aspden, leader of City of York Council, said: ‘The Guildhall is one of York’s and the region’s most historically significant buildings and I am pleased to see this great asset restored for the city.

‘The investment in the Guildhall means that the complex will once again play an important role in the city’s future for years to come, with excellent facilities for businesses and local residents to benefit from.

‘I would like to thank the efforts of staff and partners, who have worked tirelessly throughout the course of the pandemic to help deliver this project.’