A NEW bridge could be built over one of York’s rivers as part of plans to redevelop an unloved office block and regenerate a city-centre street.

City of York Council and developers are looking at linking Piccadilly with the Eye of York through a River Foss pedestrian and cycle crossing, while proposals for refurbishing nearby Ryedale House – which may become riverside apartments - are close to being unveiled.

The council said “positive” talks have been held about both potential projects. Recent Piccadilly schemes have seen work begin on converting the White Swan Hotel into apartments and shops, while the derelict Reynard's Garage site is set to become a hotel and the Banana Warehouse building and two neighbouring shops will be replaced by 37 apartments and two new stores.

A six-monthly council update on major development projects said a planning application for "residential reuse” and redesign of Ryedale House is expected shortly, and "creative discussions" have taken place about a new bridge over the Foss to Castle car park.

It said: "This, together with planned improvements to the streets and junctions as part of the Reinvigorate York initiative, will contribute well to the regeneration of the area."

Coun Dave Merrett, cabinet member for planning, said: “We are having positive discussions around ensuring any redevelopment carefully addresses the impact of Ryedale House on the Eye of York, in the vicinity of the Castle Museum and Clifford's Tower.

"These discussions include the welcome possibility of improved pedestrian and cycle linkages away from the inner ring road”.

A council spokeswoman said the authority was in formal talks with a developer and "details are still subject to negotiations”.