MORE than £300,000 is being set aside for vital repairs on York's historic Bar Walls.

The money is expected to be confirmed at a public decision session next week, and will see work start on urgent repairs on three sections of the ancient defences.

Micklegate Bar roof, Monk Bar steps, and Tower 32 all desperately need the repairs, and the £350,000 being allocated comes from the council's own capital fund for one-off projects.

City archaeologist John Oxley said: "York’s City Walls are the best example of medieval city walls still standing in England today, which over a million people walk across every year.

"Repair and restoration work is needed in many areas along the 3.4km route and we are hoping to continue the restoration of the walls following the success of the Walmgate Bar project."

City of York's executive member for transport and planning Cllr Ian Gillies will consider a report on the Walls' condition at a decision session on Thursday, June 9.

The paper asks for permission to go ahead with the first phase of a longer term repair programme, and Mr Oxley said the investments is aimed at making sure York people and visitors alike can enjoy the city walls for years to come.

If approved the plans will see Monk Bar steps and Micklegate Bar roof each get £75,000 for repairs, while £190,000 is lined up for repairs and restorations on Tower 32, which is close to the junction of Jewbury and Peasholme Green.

Cracks in the roof of Micklegate Bar are causing concerns, and timber in the roof space and external lead all need work to keep water out of the structure.

At Monk Bar, the steps need to be lifted up and moved to build a proper support underneath, while the road arch is also letting in water.

At Tower 32, work is needed on "substantial movement" which has been spotted along the wall, and the building needs underpinning, restoration, and a new door.

A 15 month programme of inspection and monitoring started in 2014, and from that more locations in need of repair and restoration are set out in the report to be considered for the second phase of the repair project.