Walkers and people interested in the history of Bishopthorpe will be disappointed today.
Steel barriers have gone up in Chantry Lane and along the river bank barring access to the old St Andrew's Church.
The redvelopment of the riverside area is a long-term project lead by the St Andrews Trust that has been overseeing the work.
According to a Trustee, the reason for the closure is an estimated £5000 worth of vandalism. Railing spikes have been hacked off, stonework damaged, and the lighting shot out with an air rifle. Because this has left exposed electrical circuits the area has been cordoned off to prevent further damage and possible injuries.
It is not known at this stage how long the barriers will stay up, nor where the funding is coming from for repairs. A lively debate at the Ward Committe held on Thursday night saw local people concerned at the blocked access, and the danger of creating a hidden zone where further damage may take place.
Anyone with information about the identity of the criminals, thought to be local, who vandalised the area, should ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or the Police on 0845 60 60 24 7, or email yorknpt@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.