York’s crucial Local Plan could be in place by the end of this year – after a 60-year wait

York’s contentious Local Plan, 60 years in the making, could be in place by the end of this year.

The city has been without a formal Local Plan for nearly 60 years. An unofficial version has been used since 2005.

City of York Council has been criticised by government advisers over delays to the updated version, first submitted in May 2018.

It will outline where and what housing developments will be built in the city over the next 20 years, and what land is classed as Green Belt.

Now the hearings into the plan, overseen by government, will start again on 15 March at York Racecourse.

This is the provisional timeline, subject to confirmation from inspectors:

• Early March: Phase 2 of hearings – focusing on the spatial strategy, level of growth and supporting infrastructure
• Late Spring 2022:  Phase 3 of hearings focusing on Green Belt boundaries
• Early Summer 2022:  Phase 4 of hearings focusing on all other plan matters.
• End of 2022/early 2023: Local Plan adoption if the examination is successful and our plan is found sound.

Cllr Nigel Ayre, City of York Council executive member for finance and performance, said: “This has been an exceptionally challenging couple of years and I would like to thank the government inspectors and all those involved who’ve managed to progress this plan despite the difficult circumstances.

“We’re confident that this is a robust and sound plan, and look forward to the next stage of the hearings.

“Our draft plan ensures that York gets the housing and jobs our city needs, whilst also protecting York’s unique character, green belt and natural beauty.”

You can find out more on the York council website.