Long-awaited start date for York's new stadium announced

The main construction phase is expected to take 16 months.

The predicted timeline for the build is included in a report being considered by councillors at a special meeting of the Executive next Thursday (July 27).

They are being presented with an update on the progress of the project, which has been hit by a series of delays since it was first proposed in 2009, with construction due to begin in April.

A new commercial development on the stadium site will feature a Cineworld cinema complex, including an IMAX screen, five restaurants and up to three retail units.

There will also be new leisure facilities incorporating a swimming pool, gym, dance studio, indoor and outdoor climbing facilities and a sports hall with spectator seating.

NHS outpatient services will be offered on-site from a community hub, subject to board approval, and there will be a new library and a York Against Cancer retail unit.

The 8,000, all-seater stadium will be home to York City Football Club and York City Knights Rugby League Club - supporting their long-term viability.

It will also enable the clubs to continue and enhance the success of their current community coaching and engagement programmes.

The new stadium, leisure facilities and the community hub will all open in 2019 along with the new cinema and commercial units.

Councillor David Carr, leader of York Council, said: “I’m delighted that with our valued partners in this major project, we are taking the next step forward.

“The stadium will be an important facility to the city and its communities, especially in terms of health and wellbeing, education and leisure.

“We will continue to work with the clubs, developer and organisations involved to make it successful and economically sustainable asset.”