Green light for planned 368-bed student accommodation

Plans for a new student community at the Frederick House site on Fulford Road, in York, have been approved by City of York Council.

The proposals, put forward by owners of the site, Summix Capital, can now go ahead for 368 student bedrooms alongside soft landscaping, new tree planting and cycle parking on the two-acre site.

Plans were deferred at the October meeting of the Planning Committee to allow for further consideration of sustainable travel measures, parking issues and to review the design. But the application was overwhelmingly approved when it returned to the committee.

The existing building on the frontage with Fulford Road will be sympathetically refurbished and used as an amenity hub for the student residents.

Lead designers, GWP Architecture redesigned the layout of the plans last year, following feedback from stakeholders.

The new buildings were realigned into clusters of open sided quads with surrounding garden and study spaces that address any overlooking concerns.

Discussions with the council’s Highways team also led to an  improved transport strategy, including redesign of cycle access and storage for residents.

Stuart Black, Summix Capital development director, said: “We’re pleased that City of York’s Planning Committee has recognised the thorough process we have gone through and approved the plans.

“The design has evolved over time following constructive conversations with the council and other stakeholders. This is a redundant brownfield site with good walking and cycle links to the university and we look forward to starting on site as soon as possible.”