Developer submits plans for former Nestle factory site

Plans have been lodged for the redevelopment of land to the west of the former Nestle factory buildings in York.

Developer Newby has submitted a planning application to City of York Council for an extensive regeneration scheme which aims to deliver more than 400 homes and apartments.

Cocoa West represents the last significant element of the traditional manufacturing site and Newby has worked with Nestle, the City of York Council and local stakeholders through public consultations to find a way to safeguard the site for future generations.

Identified within the Local Plan as one of the city’s strategic housing sites, the new plans propose the development of up to 425 houses and apartments with associated open space, car parking, community facilities and small scale commercial uses.

The land to the west of the Cocoa Works has been vacant for around eight years following the demolition of the old factory buildings in 2010. In May last year, the Council granted planning permission for the conversion of the last remaining factory buildings (the Almond and Cream Blocks) fronting on to Haxby Road with the construction works on that element of the scheme due to start in September.

Newby’s plans to bring forward the cleared land at the rear of these buildings represents an important next step in the redevelopment of the large brownfield site.

Nick Moody, director at Newby, said: “We are excited to submit planning proposals for such a significant regeneration project for York. We have worked closely with the public, local businesses and the City of York Council to provide a proposal that we hope will realise the full potential of the area, as well as safeguard the future of this strategic site.

“The proposed new scheme will deliver much needed new homes for the residents of York in an accessible location that is within walking distance of the city centre and is also well positioned along the Sustrans cycle route.”