York council to vote on a key plan guiding house building and the economy, potentially ending a decades-long wait.
Cllr Douglas shares similar enthusiasm, stating that homes are coming if it passes, providing more people a place to live in York. York has not had a Local Plan since the fifties, and this vote next week could change that.
It maps York’s growth until 2038 and defines the green belt for the first time. The plan also outlines how to protect the city’s history. Work started on this Local Plan back in 2018.
The goal is 20,000 new homes total, and it also plans to grow employment sites and expand retail areas. New transport options get investment, including buses, walking, and bike routes, as well as electric car charging stations.
Climate change measures are involved, with expectations of flood defenses and efficient buildings. An inspector checked the plan and said it was good with some changes.
The council will review housing, green belt, and infrastructure as part of adopting the plan. Pavlovic says seven years of work went in, and he feels York now has a vision for the future. He says this protects green space and will deliver the needed homes, generating economic benefits for York itself while expanding affordable housing.
Cllr Douglas says the Plan guides future development and meets the needs of residents plus businesses. She thinks this is a historic step, helping shape York’s bright future for all.
Developers want to start building soon because York needs more homes and this helps current residents’ kids stay. It also keeps university graduates around, too.
Cllr Ayre also supports the Local Plan, the creation of which began when his party was in charge. He thinks this plan delivers needed homes while also protecting green space and helping infrastructure. He urges all to vote “yes” and stick to the plan.