A six-storey hotel will be built on a former car park in York after winning approval from planners.
The development will comprise 82 bedrooms and will be one of the first hotels to generate net zero greenhouse gas emissions in the country, say developers the Helmsley Group.
To be built on the derelict Mill House car park site, off North Street in the city centre, the building will be a net zero carbon development, with a BREEAM target rating of Excellent.
This means during construction, the greenest alternatives to traditional construction will be used. The carbon output from construction will be minimised and where it can’t be, will be offset.
The design also includes sustainable features such as solar panels, air source heat pumps and a biodiverse green wall.
No car parking spaces will be provided in order to reduce carbon emissions and to support City of York Council in meeting its climate change targets.
The hotel will not feature bar or restaurant facilities “as Helmsley wants to encourage business and tourism guests to visit surrounding hospitality businesses and visitor attractions,” said a spokesperson.
[tptn_list limit=3 daily=1 hour_range=1]
The new development is just yards from two existing hotels – the Micklegate Travelodge and the Park Inn on North Street.
Max Reeves, development director at York-based Helmsley Group, said: “The approval of our plans for the Mill House site is good news for the city of York, as we not only enhance an underutilised space, but create a building of architectural and environmental high standards that will make a positive contribution to the surrounding area and wider city economy.
“We are grateful to City of York Council for its support and acknowledgement that our proposals will preserve the appearance and character of the conservation area and nearby listed buildings and places of worship, as well as being considerate to neighbouring residents by not including a food and beverage offer.”