Historic Burnby Hall near York gets new lease of life

Burnby Hall <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
Burnby Hall (Image: Supplied)
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An building near York is set for a new lease of life as a community centre and museum.

A 125-year lease has been signed for Burnby Hall and its adjoining community hall in Pocklington, with the agreement taking effect from October 1, 2026.

The long-term plan follows three years of negotiations between Pocklington Town Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

The scheme will see the building redeveloped as a community centre and museum.

A spokesperson said: "The Trustees of Pocklington Community Trust are delighted to announce the signing of a 125-year lease between the Trust and Pocklington Town Council for the whole of Burnby Hall and the adjoining community hall, effective from October 1, 2026."

The trust is working in partnership with the town council to secure funding for a phased redevelopment of the site.

Work already completed includes replacing the glass lantern, enclosing the Stewart Room—formerly a registry office—and upgrading the charity office hatch.

Pocklington Town Council has also agreed to support a partnership approach with the Pocklington District Heritage Trust and the Pocklington Community Trust to develop Burnby Hall into a community and heritage hub.

The town council will take the lead on a proposed National Lottery Heritage Fund application to help fund the project.

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