BRAND new images show what York's Guildhall complex could look like under new plans for the site.

The city council has released the architects' impressions, ahead of a special public event which will give people a chance to learn more about the proposals and comment on them.

City of York Council is planning to convert its former offices in the riverside Guildhall complex into a state of the art venue for businesses.

The plans will be on show in the Guildhall from 11am until 2pm on Wednesday,  August 3, and the project manager will be on hand to provide more information about the scheme and answer any questions.

Cllr Chris Steward, Executive Member for Finance and Performance at City of York Council, said:

"The Guildhall complex is one of York’s most iconic buildings and these plans look to transform it from an underused asset to a unique venue for business which will bring significant economic benefit to the city of over £66m in Gross Value Added.

“We welcome the views of residents on this scheme and hope they take the chance to see the proposals, meet the team and comment on detailed proposals outlining the future of York’s historic Guildhall.”

A detailed business case for the scheme will be taken to CYC's Executive and Full Council in February 2017 and if approved the work is expected to start mid 2017 with a completion by autumn 2018.

The council will keep use of the council chamber for Full Council meetings and the Guildhall for key civic and public events.