City roadworks uncover medieval hospital remains

Historic remains believed to be part of one of the largest medieval hospitals in the north of England have been uncovered during emergency roadworks in York.

The works began after a sinkhole opened up outside the Theatre Royal on St Leonard's Place in May.

After further investigation, archaeologists uncovered what is believed to be part of the 12th to 13th Century St Leonard's Hospital, which covered an area between the modern day Museum Gardens and the theatre.

Councillor Kate Ravilious, executive member for transport, said the finds were "fascinating" but admitted they had delayed the completion of the roadworks.

"We knew that there is a lot of complex archaeology in the area dating back to the Roman legionary fortress," she said.

"Throughout the works we have been live to this while doing all we can to get off site as quickly as possible."

The area around the discovery was used as the Royal Mint in the post-Reformation era.

The finds, which have been documented and sent for further analysis, are believed to become part of the Mint Yard, a sprawling area of streets and buildings in the early 19th Century.

The buildings were flattened in 1836 to make way for a Georgian streetscape and the area became one of the most fashionable parts of the city during the time period.

Demolished parts of the city walls were used to make the base for the road.

Repair works are now able to resume, but the current closure of one lane on St Leonard's Place will remain until 13 June, when it is anticipated both lanes will reopen.

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