Site preparation begins to deliver dozens of affordable homes

Work is starting to prepare the former Willow House site in Walmgate, York, ready for building 36 council homes early next year.

Planning permission was granted earlier this year for the 100 per cent affordable home development: 60 per cent at social rent and 40 per cent for shared ownership.

The housing development sits alongside a £1m investment to enhance the area inside Walmgate Bar, next to the historic city walls.

Besides the new affordable homes, this investment will reshape public open spaces to encourage community use and tackle anti-social behaviour, as well as improve local access and the Walmgate shopping parade frontage.

To prepare the housing site, City of York Council’s contractor F Parkinson Ltd will securely fence off the area. Preparation work includes demolishing the former Willow House care home and a neighbouring garage block.

When the social rent and shared ownership affordable homes are completed, they will be let in line with the council’s local lettings policy.

Councillor Dave Merrett, executive member for housing at City of York Council, said: “It’s great news to see progress being made on this scheme to bring social rent and shared ownership homes to the heart of the city for residents in need of affordable housing.

“All 36 homes will be truly affordable, will be well insulated and therefore lower cost to heat.

“We’re building them alongside wider area improvements to create a more accessible and welcoming environment for residents.”

Steve Kenneally, regional manager NE for F Parkinson, added: “We’re pleased to be part of this project to bring more high-quality council homes to the city.

“As a considerate contractor, we’re committed to work with residents to keep them informed of what work is coming up and what we’ll be doing to keep disruption to a minimum.”