AN OVERHAUL planned for one of York’s most historic sites needs to do justice to the unique and internationally significant site, the people responsible for conserving it say.

English Heritage is planning major changes and a new visitors’ centre at Clifford’s Tower. The proposals include a low structure built into the side of the motte facing the Eye of York, but some have said the building looks like a public toilet.

Jeremy Ashbee, the head historic properties curator for English Heritage, has been working on an overhaul for Clifford’s Tower for many years. He said they want to do justice to the Tower, and improve the experience for visitors at one of the most important sites in the history of York.

“It’s no secret that a lot of people do not find the current experience at Clifford’s Tower satisfactory - especially if they cannot or do not want to climb the 55 steep steps to the entrance.

“The space at present for interpretation is very limited, when we think of what an important site this has been.”

The new building will create space and reveal some parts of the tower that have been under cover, he added. Excavations show the motte has grown over the years, and during the 19th and 20th century a thick Victorian wall stood around the mound. That wall will be revealed in the development - and will form the back wall of the new building.

York Press:

Dr Ashbee added: “We felt very strongly that something built in that location has to tread a fine line. The building must be of high quality design and construction, but it must not try to compete with the tower or the buildings of the Castle Museum or court.”

The design has already seen some changes since a public consultation earlier in the year, he added, cutting the number of pillars to lessen the “cubicle” effect of the appearance. The finished product will look more like an open structure, with a glass frontage, Dr Ashbee said.

Inside the tower, new hanging gantries will firstly make it easier for people to enjoy the stunning views of York, getting rid of the “slow shuffle” visitors have to do round the walkway on busy days”, and will also open up parts of the tower which have not been visible since fire in 1684 destroyed the interior - among them King Henry III’s toilet.

Police fear about the security of the site have also been assuaged, he added, with CCTV to be installed and plans to make sure things like benched do not encourage rough sleeping in the area.