New Bookshop in York

A historic building in York is set to become the country's largest independent bookshop. The city council has approved plans to convert the Grade II-listed building on the corner of Museum Street and Blake Street.

Topping & Company, which runs four other bookshops in the UK, will open a 6,000 square foot store in the building. The company plans to offer 75,000 book titles and create 30 new jobs. This development will bring new life to a building that has been vacant for four years.

Some concerns were raised about potential damage to the building's historic fabric during the conversion. However, many local officials supported the plan, believing it would benefit the city. The bookshop is expected to open early next year, with some events planned for this autumn.