Further investment in York Central

City of York Council has reached a deal with government which could generate some £40m additional funding to maximise the impact and benefits of York Central.

The deal, which is conditional on the York and North Yorkshire devolution deal being confirmed, will allow further financial support, ensuring key elements of site infrastructure are delivered at the right time and to the highest possible quality standards. 

This deal - asked for as part of the recent devolution agreement adds to £77m of Homes England Housing Investment Grant as well as the Enterprise Zone status awarded in 2017.  

York Central is one of the largest brownfield sites in England and construction work on the key infrastructure needed to unlock the site is underway. Located next to the railway station, the 45-hectare development site will become a new part of York city centre and add vibrancy to city life, transforming underused land into a high-quality housing and commercial quarter. 

York Central will power York’s economy into the future, with up to 1 million square feet of office, leisure and retail space helping to grow its economy by 20% and also provide up to 2,500 homes.  

Councillor Claire Douglas, Leader of City of York Council said: “This is fantastic news for the whole city and is another show of government's belief in this transformative project. 

“We want York to be world-famous as a city with both a unique history and the ability to create great new places to live and work. The city needs modern commercial spaces and more essential affordable housing, and we are absolutely committed to York Central as an ambitious project to achieve that. There will also be sizeable green spaces created for public enjoyment and biodiversity, within our net zero commitments. 

“We want a place residents are proud of, can enjoy and can benefit from, no matter where they live. It is vital that the York Central Partnership delivers its potential, and we look forward to working with partners to make this happen.” 

Minister Dehenna Davison, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities) said “I am pleased to see additional Government support being provided to York Central, a project which will achieve key elements of our levelling-up agenda by delivering additional housing, jobs, GVA and regeneration to the area. This support will be unlocked by the York and North Yorkshire devolution deal agreed last August and demonstrates the benefits from Government and local partners working together.” 

Leon Guyett, York Central Project Director, Homes England said “This is more great news for the project and demonstrates ongoing confidence in the scheme to future businesses and occupiers. Reserved Matters planning for the new Square is being submitted shortly and the announcement of a strategic developer partner is expected in early October, so things are gathering pace. We’re working closely with all stakeholders to build a well designed sustainable development that drives York’s future prosperity.”