City of York Council Approves 36 Affordable Homes in Walmgate on 8 May 2026

On the evening of 8 May 2026, the City of York Council granted planning permission for the construction of 36 new homes in Walmgate, York. This initiative aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the area. The new homes will be built on the site of the former Willow House care home, which is conveniently located just inside the city walls near Walmgate Bar.

Details of the New Homes

The new development will include a mix of flats and family homes, designed to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. The project is notable for its commitment to providing affordable housing options, with:

• 60% of the homes allocated for social rent, making them accessible to lower-income families.

• 40% available for shared ownership, allowing eligible residents to buy a share of their home and gradually own it outright.

This approach helps local families who may struggle to afford housing in their own communities, ensuring they can remain connected to their roots in York.

Community and Accessibility Features

In addition to affordable housing, the new development will focus on creating a vibrant community space. Most homes will feature private outdoor areas, and there will be communal play spaces for children, encouraging families to enjoy the outdoors together. Residents will also have access to community growing spaces, where they can cultivate plants and vegetables.

Accessibility is a key aspect of the design. The homes will be equipped to accommodate disabled residents, including dedicated parking spaces and on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging points, which will be available at domestic rates. Each home will have its own front door leading directly onto the street, enhancing privacy and reducing service charges.

Local Involvement and Design

The planning process has been highly collaborative, with local residents contributing their ideas and feedback on the housing design and surrounding areas. The architectural firm Mikhail Riches, known for their innovative designs, has led the project. Architect Sophie Cole expressed excitement about the unanimous support for the project, stating,

“This is a constrained site with complex boundary conditions, including the wonderful City Wall along its southern edge. The proposal sensitively responds to this unique context, retaining views to the Minster from the City Wall and opening up views and routes from Long Close Lane through to Walmgate Bar.”

This development marks the fourth project for the City of York Council's ambitious Housing Delivery Programme to receive planning approval.

Historical Significance and Future Plans

The site of Willow House is not just important for its future housing; it also holds historical significance. As construction begins, further archaeological exploration is expected to uncover more historical finds from the area, which is rich in heritage. This adds an exciting layer to the project, blending modern living with the city’s historical context.

Cllr Michael Pavlovic, the Executive Member for Housing, highlighted the importance of this development, noting,

“Local residents have been incredibly generous with their time to help with the design of the housing and the area around it. Alongside major improvements planned for the Walmgate area, this 100% Council rent-funded and shared ownership development will make a really positive difference to residents and the city as a whole.”

Next Steps

As plans progress, the City of York Council is keen to keep the community informed. Residents can view the details of the planning committee meeting held on 8 May 2026, where this project was discussed, by following the provided resources. Those interested in the full planning application can search for Willow House on the City of York Council’s planning website.

This new housing development represents a significant step towards addressing the housing crisis in York, providing much-needed affordable options for families in the area. With a focus on community, accessibility, and sustainability, the new homes are set to become a valuable addition to Walmgate and the wider city.