THE Register Office in York will close for two months next year, with weddings taking place in the Mansion House or Bedern Hall instead.

City of York Council announced on Tuesday that the Register Office will be closed between January 7 and March 9 "while the building undergoes a programme of refurbishment".

The changes to the Register Office will include the creation of a new 'bride room', "where brides can chat to the registrar and prepare themselves for the ceremony", as well as an improved reception area, a second ceremony room and an extra interview room, which will allow the office to carry out more appointments.

While the refurbishments take place, the council has confirmed wedding ceremonies will take place at either York Mansion House or Bedern Hall, and monthly citizenship ceremonies will be held at the Mansion House.

Residents will be able to register births, deaths and statutory marriage ceremonies at the council's headquarters at West Offices, with registrars also working from York Hospital and the city's children's centres throughout this period.

Councillor Ann Reid, currently interim Executive member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism with the council, said: "We’re really excited about the programme of refurbishment, which will make the facilities at the Register Office even better for our customers and staff.

"We hope that the temporary relocation of registration services to West Offices, in addition to registrars being located at York Hospital and children’s centres, will ensure that we can continue to provide a first class service for York residents."

Residents will still be able to contact the Register Office throughout the closure period by phoning 01904 654477, or emailing registrar@york.gov.uk

Emergency contact is also available from 10am to 11am on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays excluding Christmas Day.