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News • September 1st, 2026
|Exciting changes are on the horizon for the South Walmgate area of York, as plans for new council homes and improvements totalling £1 million are set to revitalise the community. These developments are part of a broader Neighbourhood Improvement Plan (NIP), which has been shaped by feedback from local residents and is scheduled for presentation to the Executive for approval in early September.
New Council Homes
A key feature of the regeneration project is the construction of 36 new council homes on the site of the former Willow House care home. These homes will be available for social rent and shared ownership, providing affordable housing options in the city centre. This initiative is a significant step forward in the Council’s Housing Delivery Programme, which aims to address the need for more affordable housing across York.
Funding for Improvements
The total investment of nearly £1 million will come from various sources, ensuring a well-rounded approach to the improvements:
£500,000 from the council’s Local Transport Grant
£250,000 from the City of York Council’s Council Housing budget
£217,000 from the Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund, part of Mayor David Skaith’s Mayoral Challenge Fund through the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority
This funding will not only support the construction of new homes but will also enhance the local high street and improve public spaces for both residents and visitors.
Community Engagement
Community involvement has been a priority throughout the planning process. Local residents have actively participated in discussions, helping to shape proposals that focus on enhancing security in the adjacent estate, creating a communally-managed garden, making junctions more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists, and improving the shopping area. A heritage trail is also planned to celebrate the area's rich history.
Demolition and Construction Plans
To kick off the regeneration, the council has recently appointed a contractor to demolish the old Willow House care home. This contractor is part of a considerate contractor’s scheme, meaning they will keep residents updated on progress and aim to minimise disruption during the construction phase.
Additionally, the Council is working on securing ownership of a few small brick stores and garages that are necessary for the redevelopment. If needed, they will seek approval for compulsory purchase powers, although any such decision will be addressed separately by the Executive.
Statements from Council Members
Local councillors are enthusiastic about the potential of these projects to transform Walmgate.
Cllr Dave Merrett, Executive Member for Housing, stated:
“The Masterplan’s projects and ambitions prioritise community involvement and multi-agency collaboration alongside investment in local spaces and services. The 36 new genuinely affordable homes, for social rent and shared ownership, will be set in an attractive position offering sustainable living in a vibrant city centre location.”
Meanwhile, Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport, highlighted the focus on accessibility:
“We are developing options to improve accessibility and make walking, wheeling and cycling safer and easier in the Walmgate area. These include considering improved level access to the shopping parade, additional Blue Badge parking, and improvements to the cycle route linking Fishergate with Navigation Road.”
Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member for Economy and Culture, added:
“We’ve sourced significant funding for these projects to bring them together into a coherent single plan. They’ve been developed to improve the economic success of Walmgate’s local high street, set in a historically rich area close to the internationally important city walls and Walmgate Barbican.”
Upcoming Meetings
9 September at 4:30 pm and the Combined Executive Committee Meeting on 8 September at 10 am. These meetings will provide an opportunity for further discussion and input regarding the regeneration efforts.
The planned improvements are set to breathe new life into Walmgate, making it a more attractive place to live, work, and visit. With a strong focus on community involvement and a commitment to creating affordable housing, the project aims to enhance the overall quality of life in this historic area of York.
