Trees to be removed and a new path laid as transformation of York’s College Green begins

The transformation of a historic green within the precinct of York Minster is set to start next week.

College Green is to get a refresh, with new trees, a wildflower meadow and a new stone sculpture – creating a “flourishing oasis in the heart of the city”, according to the Minster.

The plans, backed by York Business Improvement District (BID), Make it York, York Minster Fund and the Friends of York Minster, were granted planning permission by City of York Council at the end of last year.

Phase one will see a new path laid and benches will be installed along the southerly wall of the green, along with the planting of trees and plants selected for biodiversity and their resilience to the busy city location.  

Five trees assessed as diseased and dying will be removed and replaced with seven healthy, mature white cherry blossom trees.

The cherry blossom will be replaced immediately with a healthy new tree.  The area around the crab apple tree will be incorporated into the landscaping designs for the public area planned for the new Welcome Centre.

Two trees on Queen’s Path that have been assessed as unsafe – a dying crab apple and a diseased cherry blossom tree – will also be removed.  

Phase two of the works will see the introduction of a sculptural stone feature, stepping stones and wildflower meadow. 

The stone feature, which will also be used for informal seating, will be carved by the Minster’s stone masons.

‘A beautiful family-friendly park’

The Revd Canon Michael Smith, Acting Dean of York, said:  “Our ambition is to transform College Green into a beautiful and peaceful space full of trees, flowers, shrubs and wildlife for the local community and for visitors to enjoy.”

There were some objections to the removal of mature trees when the application was considered in November.

Since 2017, there has been a net increase of 22 trees within the York Minster precinct. 

The most recent, a lime tree, was planted on Sunday (February 6) to mark the seventieth anniversary of the accession of the Queen to the throne and the start of her Platinum Jubilee year. 

Andrew Lowson, executive director at York BID said:  “It’s exciting to see work start on this project which will greatly enhance York’s open spaces, creating a beautiful family-friendly park.

“With a wonderful view and surrounded by local independent businesses, it’s sure to become a valuable community asset.”