PROPOSALS for a floating arts centre in the heart of the region’s tourism capital have suffered a blow - with planners recommending the plans are not approved.
The project has been waiting for a planning decision from City of York Council for six months, but now documents reveal it is not being backed by council officials.
An application a permanent mooring for the barge in Tower Gardens, near Skeldergate Bridge finally goes before the planning committee next week.
The proposals are to moor the 31-metre barge on permanent pilings in the riverbed.
The barge’s hull would be roofed to create a main performance space, with a new structure and outdoor seating area on the upper deck. It would be a home for community arts and performances until around 11pm.
But in her report planning officer Rachel Tyas said the venue would attract more people through the riverside gardens and harm their quiet character, while the sight of the barge would not fit with the historic surroundings such as Skeldergate Bridge and views of Clifford’s Tower.
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