Conservation works on part of York’s medieval walls start today (Monday).
City of York Council’s stonemason team will be carrying out the works for up to six months.
This includes preserving the lead and timber covering of Bootham Bar’s roof, which has been leaking.
The team will be conserving the principal timber structures by stripping out more modern elements to preserve the historical parts of the timbers.
Bootham Bar will be wrapped in scaffolding which will require a road closure 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.
Cyclists can choose to dismount and push cycles through the pedestrian access point.
Minimise disruption
Bootham Bar sits on the site of the Porta Principalis Dextra, a gateway to the legionary fortress dating back to 72AD.
The latest conservation works are all part of ongoing efforts to preserve York’s historic monuments.
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.”
