York developers Grantside and North Star have formed a joint venture to buy an iconic Grade II listed building on Clifford Street, in York City Centre, with a view to bringing the historic building back to life following the closure of Kuda nightclub. The 23,282ft² building has been acquired from BAE Systems Pension Fund and also houses the York Dungeon attraction, which will reopen once Covid restrictions are lifted. The former nightclub owners have been placed into administration and a new operator is now being sought. Dating from the late 1800’s, the Grade II listed former Institute is a prominent feature on the street scene of Clifford Street, and its external architecture and internal features are a fantastic example of the Victorian style.
Grantside Founder and CEO, Steve Davis, said: "This is a significant city-centre site well-known for its outstanding architecture. As a partnership of York developers, we know the building well, and we are thrilled to have secured this investment. Being based in York we understand the important need in York for nightlife venues to attract young people, students and clubbers and regenerate the city’s night-time economy as we recover from the Covid-19 pandemic. We aim to bring the venue back to life with this use as the building has amazing potential and will be marketed to suitable venue operators in order to boost the city’s night-time offer.”
