Around 150 jobs set to be created at family housing scheme in York

Following the successful sales launch of The Cocoa Works, the former Rowntree factory in York, Latimer, the development arm of Clarion Housing Group, has announced the acquisition of a nearby 11 acre brownfield site.

In a statement, Latimer said: "Latimer has appointed JTP Architects to revise the original proposals for the site to introduce more family housing, deliver a less dense mixed tenure residential scheme and create a community in keeping with the historic surroundings.

"The scheme will provide modern facilities, improved biodiversity, alongside private and public outdoor space. Sustainability will be a key focus, with low emission and future proofed homes set within attractive landscaping. There will be connections to sustainable transport, including local cycle networks and facilities."

"Cocoa West will comprise homes for private sale, shared ownership and rent, with a minimum of 20% being affordable housing. In addition, there will be crèche facilities available on the site to support working families."

Latimer will start consultation on the new proposals in early 2021 with work on site expected to begin in 2022.

Richard Cook, Group Director of Development for Clarion Housing Group, said: “We are delighted to have acquired this site which will enable us to create a vibrant and thriving new sustainable mixed tenure neighbourhood in York, integrating with and complementing our Cocoa Works development.

“Our commitment to placemaking means that this new development will not only be a place where people want to live, but also socialise and work, using the environment we create as a base from which to explore all that the city has to offer.

"Our new proposals will deliver a significant number of much-needed affordable homes alongside homes for private sale, meeting the needs of a wide range of people at different life stages, and we’re looking forward to working with the City of York and the local community to develop our plans further.”

A spokesman added; "We estimate that it could create approximately 150 jobs plus around 10 apprenticeships."

Homes at The Cocoa Works are now available to reserve off plan, with apartments priced from £158,500.

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