THE principal entry point to Durham Cathedral has been out of use on some days to allow for surveying ahead of improvements in the spring.

Visitors arriving from Palace Green, on some days, are greeted by a sign informing them of the temporary closure of the North Door.

They are being directed to the nearby doorway at the Galilee Chapel, at the western end of the cathedral.

A Dean and Chapter spokeswoman said the intermittent North Door closures are to enable the survey work to be carried out prior to further improvements after Easter.

“The survey work is with a view to putting new porches at the North and South doors, but that will only take place after Easter.

“Temporary closures are only on a day-by-day basis.”

The North Door bears the famous Sanctuary Knocker used in medieval times by those accused of certain offences seeking a temporary safe haven until they could achieve reconciliation or plan their passage from the nearest available port.