RESTORATION projects aimed at protecting York’s historic Bar Walls for future generations are expected to secure £90,000 in funding next year.

The slice of cash earmarked for repairing stretches of the centuries-old defences which have now become one of the city’s most iconic tourist attractions is £53,000 less than the amount devoted to schemes in the current year.

But City of York Council has confirmed the necessary funds for ensuring the ancient structures are preserved are still being made available, despite the need for the authority to cut its costs as part of a three-year efficiency programme.

The work for the 2010/11 financial year will focus on completing repair work to the section of the walls near Monk Bar, which is considered essential to make it safe for residents and visitors to walk along.

Coun Steve Galloway, the council’s executive member for city strategy, said: “The allocation for the Bar Walls was increased to £143,000 due to a carry over of funds from 2008/09.

“There may be a carry over from 2009/10 into 2010/11 as well, as the work can be influenced by factors such as the weather.”

The figures for the cost of maintaining the Bar Walls have been included in papers outlining the council’s city strategy capital programme for next year, which will go before a decision session for the directorate next week.

The proposed layout of work for 2010/11 includes devoting £1.75 million for measures including improvements to the roundabout linking the Outer Ring Road and the A19 at Rawcliffe, as well as £530,000 for enhanced public transport facilities such as upgrading bus stops and shelters.

Just over £1 million has been set aside for “multi-model schemes”, incorporating the completion of cycling and bus measures along Fulford Road between Heslington Lane and Hospital Fields Road, changes to the junction of Blossom Street, Nunnery Lane and Queen Street – subject to a public consultation exercise – and improvements to the Fishergate Gyratory system.

The programme also includes improving access to schools along the edge of Rawcliffe Recreation Ground, contributing towards the multi-million pound Minster Piazza scheme in Deangate and filling the gaps in York’s orbital cycle route.