Architect/ Designer: Structural & Civil Consultants, Northallerton
Client/Developer: City of York Council
Builder: City of York Council Ancient Monuments team
Presented by: Andrew Scott, Chairman, York Civic Trust
Walmgate Bar is the best-preserved medieval town gateway in the country – and one of the most unusual, with its curious three-storey, timber-framed gatehouse on the inside – supported on two very vulnerable stone columns. After a vehicle strike in 2012, it was decided to reinforce and restore the gatehouse. This involved new steel beams for the main supports and the extensive overhaul and replacement of the oak framing – which was then reinforced with plywood membranes – and the lime-plaster render restored. A robust oak balustrade has been reinstated on the roof, allowing visitors to enjoy the wonderful views over the city. At the same time the walkway of the Barbican on the outside of the gate has been restored and is now open the public for the first time in may years – as one of York’s most unusual cafés. This project has required the integration of a number of very different skills and disciplines: archaeology, structural engineering, conservation in stone, timber, lime plaster and lead – as well as the overall design and the complex contract organisation. Thanks to the skills of a remarkable team, the public will be able to enjoy the Walmgate Bar for centuries to come.
