Updated designs revealed for city public space

Revised plans for a new public space in one of York’s most historic areas have been made public.

Updated concept designs from landscape architects BDP imagine how the Castle and Eye of York area could meet residents’ ambitions for the public space to replace Castle Car Park, as well as how it can become greener and more accessible.

The scheme will be brought forward in phases due to the funding available, focusing on the Castle Car Park and the boardwalk in the first phase.

However, the original planning application, which was submitted in February 2022, will be amended so a comprehensive scheme is developed for the whole area, which can then be implemented when money becomes available.

Residents and businesses are being invited to give their feedback on the proposals and a revised planning application is expected to be submitted in early 2025.

Councillor Katie Lomas, executive member for finance, performance, major projects, human rights, equality and inclusion at City of York Council, said: “The Castle Gateway plans have been shaped by a real desire to improve this important part of the city.

“Over recent years the council has been listening to a range of ideas which have shaped an open brief and masterplan for the area to create a place where all our residents want to spend time and enjoy.

“We want to get on with delivering these improvements. The key changes that we are asking for views on respond to our core commitments as a council to equalities and climate as well as the recently approved ‘Our City Centre’ vision’.

“Also, following unsuccessful levelling up funding bids in previous years, we need to adapt the scheme to make it affordable and deliverable for the city, all while achieving the improvements to the area that people are demanding of us.”