Plans have been submitted to renovate a key building at York Minster Precinct as part of its pioneering Neighbourhood Plan.

If planning permission and listed building consent are approved by City of York Council, much needed improvement and repair work will be made to the Grade II* listed Red House building at 6 Minster Yard.

As part of the latest low carbon retrofit project by the Chapter of York, the governing body of York Minster, a ‘warm roof’ with solar slates will be incorporated on the building’s south side.

The same system has been successfully introduced on the Precinct’s Refectory building with permission also granted at 2 Deangate, where work is set to commence in 2025.

In addition to the solar slates at Red House, a platform will be created in the roof space for an air source heat pump to be installed in the future when funding allows.

Other planned improvements include a new balustrade to the side external staircase, repairs to roof timbers and the removal of an unstable chimney stack.

Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct at York Minster, said: “These proposals will not only improve the existing roof at Red House but also prepare the building to remain in sustainable use for the lifespan of the new slate roof, in the face of growing climate change challenges.

“The redevelopment of Red House continues York Minster’s trailblazing approach to planning matters and creating a sustainable future for both the cathedral building and its surrounding Precinct through our pioneering Neighbourhood Plan.

“York Minster has already won two major awards for its Neighbourhood Plan which has created a planning policy framework to deliver significant changes within a heritage estate and is a shining example of best practice in managing complex heritage estates and how to secure their long-term environmental, financial and heritage sustainability for future generations to enjoy.”

Alongside plans for Red House, construction work is accelerating at the Centre of Excellence for Heritage Craft Skills and Estate Management, a world class campus facility for research, education and training in ancient craft skills.

The Centre of Excellence will bring benefits including continuing the craft of stonemasonry and encouraging global learning and knowledge sharing, as well as being a shining example of best practice in managing complex heritage estates.

The Neighbourhood Plan sets out a policy-led approach to creating a sustainable future for the Minster and its seven hectare estate.

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