Consent given for major scheme to transform part of city centre

The scheme is billed as an important step towards delivering “world class” public space around Clifford’s Tower and Eye of York.

The committee approved a 106 apartment block, which will include 20 affordable homes, on the site of the old Castle Mills car park.

The scheme includes a new public square and a pedestrian/cycle bridge over the Foss to connect Piccadilly and the wider cycle and walking routes to and across the city centre.

As well as continuing Piccadilly’s transformation into a city-living neighbourhood, the sale of these apartments will help to pay for the majority of the public benefits and infrastructure of the wider Castle Gateway masterplan.

The council has committed to providing replacement parking before Castle Car Park can close.

Councillor Nigel Ayre, executive member for finance and performance, said: “This is fantastic news and another important milestone in a bold plan to transform such an important part of our city.

“Castle Gateway will provide exactly what York needs to continue its economic recovery.

“It gives the space for businesses to grow and more affordable houses, while the new public spaces, cycle paths, and walkways will bring residents and visitors into the city.

“We are committed to the principle of replacement car parking before Castle Car park has closed, and have given ourselves enough time to understand the impact of COVID and develop the Local Transport Plan.

“We’ve been able to deliver where decades of other proposals fail because we’ve placed quality public engagement at the heart of the proposals.

“I look forward to taking part in the next set of conversations as residents shape a world-class, family-friendly space which everyone can enjoy.”