THE Barbican Centre could be reopened to host events during Royal Ascot at York, the Evening Press can reveal.

Absolute Leisure has confirmed it is talking to local and national promoters with a view to holding a series of events in the York centre from June 14 to 18.

The company, which owns the building, says it has not yet come up with a full programme of activities to mark the five-day festival of horse racing at Knavesmire.

But the Evening Press understands the events could include concerts, with bands being lined up to come to the city during Ascot week.

The Barbican Centre has been closed since the end of October, but delays over its redevelopment have seen it sitting empty ever since.

Tony Knox, Absolute Leisure's managing director, said that rather than leaving the building empty, the company was in discussions to open the Barbican - but only on a temporary basis.

"This is at quite an early stage," he said. "But we have been in talks with local and national promoters to put some events on during Royal Ascot week.

"The works at the site have been delayed, so it's just a question of trying to get anything we can in there during the short- term while it is standing empty. We have got an opportunity to give the building a bit of use."

A City of York Council spokesperson said: "Absolute Leisure, the new operators of the Barbican auditorium, have put together some proposals for potential events that could take place in the venue during Royal Ascot at York.

"City of York Council has not had any input in this and we understand that these are simply outline suggestions at this moment in time."

Ernie Dickinson, campaigner for protest group Save Our Barbican, said any plans for the centre were premature until the results of a judicial review which could determine its future had been announced.

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, said: "We're looking forward to seeing the Barbican Centre back in York's portfolio of venues and we'd be pleased to see it open during Royal Ascot week.

"However, the number one priority has to be its long-term use."

Updated: 10:12 Thursday, February 10, 2005