‘Masterplan’ for York city centre to revitalise derelict area

A ‘masterplan’ for a York city centre site is set to be put before councillors next week.

The Castle Gateway scheme plans to develop derelict buildings and vacant sites to create opportunities for mixed use commercial developments, said the City of York Council.

Plans for a major redevelopment of Piccadilly, Coppergate Shopping Centre and the Eye of York through to St George’s Field and the Foss Basin will be discussed, which could see a public square, footbridge and riverside walks added to the city.

An “unsightly” 1960s car park at the base of Clifford’s Tower will be demolished, with options for an underground or multi-storey car park at an alternative location.

Cllr David Carr, Leader of City of York Council, said: “Our new ambitious vision will revitalise this whole area of York ensuring it can realise its full potential. We’re already seeing new developments in this area such as Spark:York. We hope this vision will help to further kick-start new interest and investment in what has been an often underused and in parts semi derelict part of the city.”

Cllr Keith Aspden, deputy leader with reasonability for economic development and community engagement at of City of York Council, said: “The area contains a substantial amount of public estate including three museums, three court buildings and many listed structures and a historic monument of international significance. It’s therefore vital that as a principal land holder, City of York Council has a major role to play to ensure that this new vision is a success.

“A key part of this vision will be to use our assets to help stimulate and guide development, and that alongside partners we can maximise the opportunity to shape this area and regenerate this important gateway to the city.”

The Local Plan Working Group will be asked to make comments on the draft planning policy at a meeting on Monday January 23 from 5.30pm at West Offices.

The full vision and how it will be developed and delivered will be taken to the executive meeting, which takes place on Thursday January 26 at 5.30pm.

Both meetings are open to members of the public and are available to watch online.