HUNDREDS of ceramic tiles inspired by unique paving in York’s back allies are being used on the side of a new first floor extension to York Art Gallery.

More than 300 double hexagon shaped tiles are being fitted to the exterior of what will become part of the Centre of Ceramic Art (CoCA) when the gallery reopens in the summer following an £8 million redevelopment.

A gallery spokesman said the tiles alluded to a style of paving known as “Stable Paviours,” or “Rosemary Setts,” which was used on numerous allies and back streets in the city.

"It is believed the original paving was made from colliery waste brought to the city as railway ballast," he added.

Mike Woodward, chief operating officer for York Museums trust, said: “It seemed fitting to use ceramic tiles for the exterior of CoCA, but we were unsure what shape they should be until we spotted the unique paving style used in some of the hidden corners of the city.

“The double hexagon style is in keeping with the fantastic contemporary art that will be on show in the gallery but at the same time draws influence from a part of York’s history.”

The new ceramic tiles, which are much larger than the original Rosemary Setts were made by Shaws of Darwen in Lancashire.