REMIND you of anywhere in particular?

This magnificent structure, designed by architects in America, could soon become a castle-style band shell and stage in another city of York - in Nebraska.

The design, based upon our very own Micklegate Bar, would be two-and-a-half storeys high with a 60-foot-wide stage and stairs to walk across the top and down the other side for plays.

A moat and cement drawbridge would also be included.

The potential "Yorktown Castle", is being supported by businessman Mark Jensen, of York, Nebraska, who has been working on it for three months.

Mr Jensen, the owner-manager of two radio stations, envisages that the castle would make a compelling backdrop for outdoor entertainment, weddings and other events.

Summer farmers' markets could also be held there each week, to attract more of Nebraska's 8,000 population.

Mr Jensen said he was excited about the project, which he hoped would attract people to York's central downtown business district.

"I fully believe that this is something we need for our community," he said.

"What I'd like to see is for York to be known as the castle city."

He said: "I'd love to have the castle well-lit at night and sporting glorious hues of red and green at Christmas time."

Yorktown Castle would be smaller than Micklegate Bar, and located on a corner of the York courthouse lawn.

It would cost $350,000, which would be funded by grants and donations.

However, not everyone has welcomed the project with open arms.

Two commissioners have already stated doubts, saying it could be the "right thing in the wrong location."

But Mike Ayars, of architectural firm Ayars and Ayars, said he faced a "unique" rather than "unusual" task.

"It's a good, solid construction and design," he said.

He added: "We went back and researched York, England, to try to put something from York, England, in York, Nebraska."

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, said: "We are so impressed that Nebraska is going to take the trouble to replicate one of York's landmarks. This will increase awareness of the city in a region of the US which is difficult for us to access, and to have a piece of York so far away is an incredible accolade for the city's architectural heritage."

Updated: 10:09 Friday, October 14, 2005