Council Leader Cllr. Ian Gillies has confirmed that plans for the York Central development are still in their early stages and that the Conservative-led administration is keen to work with residents on all issues, including residents’ concern over the proposed diversion of Leeman Road around the National Railway Museum.
Cllr. Gillies said:
“We made a commitment at the start of developing a plan for York Central that we would listen and learn from residents, communities, businesses and commuters. This once in a lifetime opportunity means we will work hard to connect and to consult with the city and as a result, the space will change.
“One of the key developments will be to pay homage to our history and transform the railway entrance to the city and expand the National Railway Museum. The museum is one of our key tourist attractions currently visited by 750,000 people a year. By expanding the site, visitor numbers will almost double to 1.2m per year, significantly adding to our visitor economy.
“However, as a resident of Poppleton who uses Leeman Road on a frequent basis I am conscious of the fact that it is a major artery into the city and that compromises may be needed to keep the traffic in York moving.
“What I would say to residents is that York Central is a work in progress. The masterplan is a starting point and I genuinely want the people to be involved throughout the process in which the outstanding issues concerning the development of this enormous site are eventually resolved.
“Throughout the summer public engagement will continue as we better understand how to invigorate this brown field site with green parks, cycle routes and public footpaths that meet resident needs whilst invigorating our economy.”