10-year strategy proposes 20,000 more homes and sites for economic growth

A 10-year strategy for York has outlined plans to deliver 20,000 new homes, including a significant proportion of affordable housing.

It proposes how the city will allocate sites for economic growth, including areas for employment and retail expansion.

The Local Plan also features proposals for investing in sustainable transport infrastructure, including improved bus routes, cycling paths, and electric vehicle charging stations.

Once adopted, this plan will be the city’s first comprehensive development framework since 1956.

It is intended to guide York’s growth for the next decade, while establishing the city’s green belt and historic setting for the first time.

City of York Council is set to consider adoption of the Local Plan following the findings of a Government inspector’s report on the strategy, which will be presented for consideration at Full Council on 27 February.

As part of the adoption process, the council will review the inspector’s recommendations and the main modifications to housing allocations, green belt boundaries, and transport infrastructure planning.

Councillor Claire Douglas, leader of the council, said: “The Local Plan is an historic step in shaping York’s bright future, and we’re excited about what it means for our city.

“We welcome the inspector’s findings and are confident their modifications will strengthen the plan, ensuring it supports York’s vision for a sustainable, inclusive city for all.

“The plan provides us with a clear roadmap for how our city will develop and grow over the next decade – meeting the needs of our residents and businesses.”

Cllr Katie Lomas, executive member for finance, performance, major projects, human rights, equality, and inclusion, said: “This Local Plan is designed to support the growth of York while promoting equality, accessibility, and sustainability.

“We are particularly focused on ensuring that affordable housing remains a central component of this plan, along with infrastructure that meets the needs of all residents, including those from the most disadvantaged groups.

“This is a long-term investment in creating a fairer, greener York for future generations.”

Cllr Michael Pavlovic, executive member for housing, planning and safer communities, added: “The Local Plan represents the outcome of seven years extensive consultation, public hearings, and thorough examination.

“The plan outlines significant investments in housing, transport, and employment opportunities, which will help drive York’s economy and provide much-needed infrastructure.

“For York to prosper we need to be ambitious, and this plan unlocks the potential to make those ambitions a reality.”