This is how York’s latest student block could look, if it is given the green light.
It is set to be built on the site of the Mazda dealership on Layerthorpe, which would be demolished if the planning application is given the green light.
That garage was built in 1994 after another demolition – that of the John Bull pub.
According to a design statement, the four and five storey student accommodation will have 234 beds and feature indoor communal spaces, a reception area, gym, private dining space, cinema, and game rooms.
“The architectural concept draws inspiration from Layerthorpe’s industrial past, reflected in the robust materials and careful detailing of the building façades,” say Danehurst Developments Ltd, who are behind the project.
The Mazda “dealership is one of the last remaining in the area with others having relocated to the Clifton Moor Area,” planning documents state.
“The building itself is of low architectural quality and does not contribute positively to the urban context. Its condition is in a poor state and would not lend itself well to any form of conversion.”
Architects say: “One of the main drivers of the design is to radically improve the pedestrian experience along the streetscape providing an engaging building frontage with visual interest at both ground and upper levels.”
They add: “The design of the building aims to make a positive contribution to the surrounding area, setting a new standard for architectural excellence.”
According to another document there are “26,960 full-time students as at 2021/22 studying at York higher education institutions.
“The York student accommodation market is undersupplied. We estimate there are between 6,500 and 11,878 full-time students in the city who are unable to access purpose-built student accommodation…
“With relatively limited supply within a quarter-mile radius of the site, we expect the proposed scheme to be well received by the students.”
You can read and comment on the planning application here.