Approval for food market with live music at ‘eyesore’ building in York

A firm which submitted plans to operate a food hall, market and live performances in the re-developed Stonebow House in York City Centre has had its licencing application approved.

Try Market Halls’ proposals to transform the emoy “eyesore” Stonebow House into a “family friendly food market hall dining experience” have been approved by City of York Council’s Licensing Committee.

There had been previous concerns raised by residents after the firm submitted its proposals to open 6.30am until 1.30am. Planning permission was granted last year for the complete transformation of Stonebow House to provide two levels of retail and leisure space, totalling 31,500 sq ft. Above this, the former office space is being transformed into 17 apartments.

David Laycock, Regional Development for Try Market Halls, said: “We listened carefully to the understandable concerns of nearby residents who clearly had a very bad experience from previous tenants operating a night club with licensing until 4am.

“We have taken on board their feedback and have a very different style of business. This will be an asset to revitalising this part of York and I believe it will be enjoyed just as much by residents as it will by visitors.”

“This is great news for York and will breathe new life into this former eyesore. This will be a new social city hub where both locals and visitors of all ages can eat, meet, experience amazing food and plan their time to get the most out of their visit to the city.

“It is vital that York can respond to the growing demand from visitors and residents alike as it continues to grow as one of the country’s leading tourist destinations, recently named as second in popularity only to London.

Try Market Halls reassured the Licensing Committee that it would ensure that the plans and measures proposed to minimise any disturbance from the new site would be applied and maintained.

York Business Improvement District has supported the application by Try Market Halls. Executive Director Andrew Lowson said: “I believe that this high quality venture will be an experience that will add value to our city centre.  I have spoken to professional services in the city who say it will be great place to meet and do business and I also think it will draw in local people due to the choice of food and its unique proposition.  The operator’s two current venues are Fulham and Victoria in London, so it is credit to the city that this high end brand has chosen York.”

Try Market Halls will now review its development schedule and announce its revised timeline for the development, which it is estimated will create 100 new jobs

The firm said that whilst every Market Hall is entirely unique, each is curated to showcase the best food and drink an area has to offer, in permanent and covered locations.

Try Market Hall added: “The team works with leading restaurants, new talent, small businesses and local suppliers, engaging with neighbourhood restaurants and chefs. Each venue is designed to integrate with the local community through events programmes and schools outreach. The sites are as environmentally sound as possible with plates, bowls, glasses and cutlery, replacing the disposable tableware that have become synonymous with street food.”