Developers confident plans are moving forward at landmark Chocolate Works site

THE joint developers behind York’s landmark Chocolate Works factory have told business leaders that they have made “significant” progress with the site.

David Wilson Homes plans to develop around 300 dwellings on the residential part of the 27 acre site and said it is close to being able to submit a detailed planning application for phase one. Henry Boot Developments is redeveloping the commercial sector and the listed factory buildings as part of a major commercial property scheme. The business has embarked on a comprehensive marketing programme for the commercial part of the site, which it says has already attracted interest from numerous potential occupiers.

Ben Ward, senior development surveyor at Henry Boot Developments, said: “We are absolutely committed to fulfilling the potential of the Chocolate Works and in doing so sourcing services and labour locally where possible.  This will help further boost the positive economic impact of the Chocolate Works development for the city as a whole.”

David Wilson Homes Yorkshire East managing director, Paul Newman, said the Chocolate Works – the former Terry’s chocolate factory – is a “strategically important site for York”.

Speaking at the York & North Yorkshire Chamber’s construction lunch in York, both businesses assured locally-based companies that they would have every opportunity to secure contracts as part of the site’s redevelopment over the next five to ten years.

Head of the Chamber, Susie Cawood, said: “We are delighted that the Chocolate Works redevelopment has finally started, especially after the false starts.  It’s excellent news for York and the region.”