Allclear Demolition on plans to clear site for Dakota Hotel

Allclear Demolition are several months into the phased pulling-down of a 1960s office block in Rougier Street on a plot which had been planned as a ‘Roman Quarter’ for the city centre.

As reported by The Press, the land is being prepared for a 140-bedroom hotel to be run by Evans Dakota Hotels.

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During the planning application process, government statutory advisor Historic England told City of York Council there could be damage caused to nationally significant Roman remains by elements of the demolition process.

Allclear Demolition are clearing vacant 1960s block to make way for a Dakota Hotel (Image: Allclear Demolition)

At the time, agents for the applicant said investigations into the concrete frame of the existing structure, latterly known as Northern House would not be up to modern loading standards.

A spokesperson for Leeds-based Allclear Demolition said: “Throughout 2024 and 2025 major borehole surveys and trial trenching was conducted within the existing building to model the complex layers of deposits beneath the site.

“Reports confirmed the site contained ‘nationally significant’ archaeology remains extending up to ten metres below ground level.

“Based upon these findings planning officials have recommended a strict “written scheme of investigation” and a permanent archaeological watching brief during all future groundworks.”

Allclear Demolition are clearing vacant 1960s block to make way for a Dakota Hotel (Image: Allclear Demolition)

Techniques employed for the use of construction piles for the new building are said to only affect 3.2 per cent of the deposits, the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added: “In November 2025, following several months of planning and temporary works designing, Allclear Demolition were appointed as the preferred demolition partner, working alongside GMI Construction as main contractors and commenced their carefully designed, meticulous ‘top down’ demolition method for this building.

“Considering the neighbouring buildings and concerns raised from an archaeological, environmental and busy city centre perspective. Allclear Demolition are working closely with York City Council throughout this scheme, monitoring all demolition activity, with various noise and vibration monitoring equipment across the footprint of the site.

“To date, no Archaeological artefacts have been uncovered by our team, but this could change over the coming months as they reach ground level.”

Allclear Demolition are clearing vacant 1960s block to make way for a Dakota Hotel (Image: Allclear Demolition)

Allclear director Joshua Dean said: ““We’re proud to be part of the Northern House demolition scheme, marking an important step in the area’s transformation.

“While it’s always significant to see longstanding structures come down, we recognise the opportunities this project creates for future development and community growth.

“Our team is committed to delivering this phase safely, responsibly, and with respect for the site’s history as we help pave the way for what comes next.”