Homes plan for top factory site ‘sign of turning corner’

A MAJOR housing development on a landmark factory site in York has been heralded as a signal the city has “turned a corner” in meeting its housing demand.

Members of York Council have given the go-ahead to the first wave of homes on the historic Terry’s estate, after confectionery production came to an end eight years ago.

The site has stood empty since the demise of the factory in 2005, which was a huge blow to the city’s traditional manufacturing sector.

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But now David Wilson Homes has been granted planning permission to build 57 homes, 28 flats and a shop as the first stage of a major development to transform the sprawling 27-acre site.

Outline planning permission had previously been granted but councillors have now rubberstamped details including access, layout and the appearance of the site.

Coun Dave Merrett, cabinet member for transport, planning and sustainability, told the Yorkshire Post yesterday that the development will provide a significant boost and shows a major corner is being turned in easing the housing pressures on the city.

He said: “It’s absolutely excellent news.

“Both in terms of getting housing started on the site – additional housing including affordable housing.

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“But also in terms of the fact the site has been stood largely empty for quite a number of years.

“And people in the local area will be really pleased to see it being brought into use.”

He added: “I think it’s a sign of the change that’s coming.

“We have been putting through a lot of planning applications recently in terms of housing so we really think were are beginning to turn the corner in terms of getting additional housing to meet the needs of the city.”

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The plans which came before the councillors had received five letters of comment – one in support and four objecting to the plans, which had been recommended for approval by council officers.

Concerns had included fears that traffic will become clogged up in adjoining side streets.

The plans included homes and a four-storey apartment block as the first stage of the 
development.

Initial permission had previously been granted to build 270 houses and apartments.

The former Terry’s chocolate factory also incorporates a number of Grade II listed buildings.