AN historic building in the centre of York has been renovated and brought back into use with the support of a £1.9 million loan from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

The former White Swan Hotel on the corner of Piccadilly and Coppergate, which has been derelict since it closed as a hotel in the 1980s, is being brought back to use by York property and construction consultants Lawrence Hannah.

The renovation work is due to be completed at the end of this month, with a new Sainsbury’s store occupying part of the ground floor, while the upper storeys are being converted into residential apartments including affordable housing units.

Richard Butterfield, relationship director for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: "The redevelopment of this iconic building will help to breathe new life into it and the surrounding area, creating new jobs and amenities.

"The White Swan Hotel occupies a prominent position in the centre of the city, and we’ve worked closely with the owners to ensure that the redevelopment was completed in a sensitive and sustainable way, acknowledging the historic character of this part of York."