THE redevelopment of York’s abandoned Bonding Warehouse has taken a step forward, after councillors approved a revised revamp.

Owner William Legard says the building should now be back in use by the end of the year, with offices on the two main floors, and two flats eventually going in the roof-space. A Leeds-based firm of surveyors is likely to move in.

A City of York Council planning committee yesterday agreed to allow Mr Legard to use offices in most of the building, rather than having apartments in half.

He said the collapse of the proper market made housing a less realistic option for the site.

Mr Legard said he was pleased with the councillors’ decision, but said he still hoped to eventually convert more of the building, which he bought in 2007 for £1 million, into flats.

He said he hoped the residential property market would pick up, allowing him to realise his dream of converting it to housing.

“That is what I bought the building for,” he said.

The Bonding Warehouse has been empty since the severe floods of 2000, when it was badly damaged.

The building dates back to 1875, and had most recently been used as a bar and restaurant.

At yesterday’s meeting, Mr Legard’s planning agent, Cliff Carruthers, said: “In the current economic climate, just residential use is not viable.”

Conservative leader Ian Gillies said: “The building is overdue for redevelopment.”

Labour’s Janet Looker said: “I welcome some real movement on this site, and look forward to seeing it back in use.”

A plan for an innovative, fold-down evacuation bridge is now on hold, pending a decision on whether and when housing will be developed in the Warehouse.

Sue Sunderland, of the Liberal Democrats, added she liked the idea of the bridge, and hoped it could be revived in the future.

Mr Legard’s application was passed unanimously.