A NEW Viking experience may be created in a York car park next year, prior to the return of Shakespeare's Rose Theatre.

City of York Council says it been approached by Yorkshire based Bifrost Entertainments with a proposal for a Viking Hall on the Castle car park near Clifford's Tower, between January 18 and May 3.

"The Viking themed theatrical experience would include a Viking Great Hall and courtyard theatre creating an immersive performance space with a capacity of approximately 100 people per show - with 360 degree sets, live actors, and special effects," said a spokeswoman.

"The installation would also include a Viking themed homestead featuring food and beverage outlets, box office, sheltered and unsheltered seating, entertainment and demonstration stage and the potential for a craft and skills market."

She said the project had a capacity to attract a total of 44,800 patrons over the 11 week performance period.

She added that the authority's executive would be asked to agree to this and also the proposed return of the successful Rose Theatre next summer, subject to planning permission, at a meeting on Thursday October 25.