THE developers working on York’s new £43.8 million council headquarters are seeking permission to protect the historic building from water.

Miller Construction, which is in charge of the revamp of West Offices, in Station Rise, want to fit a damp-proofing system which is designed to prevent “decay” in the future.

The firm is also seeking approval to change the layout of the building’s basement so it can house the council’s data centre room, plant rooms and storage.

The HQ project, drawn up by York Investors LLP, is aimed at saving £17 million over 25 years.