ARCHAEOLOGISTS have moved on to the site of Northallerton’s former prison to do a final exploration before redevelopment work begins.

Residents will be able to have a last look at the 3.5-acre plot at an open day on Saturday, July 14 from 11am to 3pm. Entrance is from the Crosby Road side of the site.

York Archaeological Trust is spending two weeks excavating an area close to the listed buildings and the old courthouse wall. Previous digs uncovered the foundations of a treadmill and kitchen chimney.

Toby Kendall, from YAT, added: “The site has already revealed an amazing history so we are looking forward to seeing what else is buried here. We hope to open up the hoardings during this phase of digging so people can watch us at work – and we will be here at the open day to talk to local people about our work.”

The site is being redeveloped by the Central Northallerton Development Company Ltd – a partnership between Hambleton District Council and Wykeland Group. Plans for the site are currently on display at the Civic Centre in Northallerton – they include retail, restaurant, cinema, digital hub and public open space. They are expected to be submitted for planning permission later this summer.