More homes proposed for Council’s low-energy, 100% affordable Ordnance Lane site

Following Executive’s decision in November 2023 to build 100% affordable homes off Fulford Road, these zero-carbon in use homes are proposed to increase in number from 85 to 101.

To create these extra 16 homes, the number of larger properties for mixed generation households will be reduced. The space will instead be used to create more in-demand one- and two-bedroomed homes which will all be offered in a variety of affordable tenures.

The 90 new-build homes are all designed to meet Passivhaus standards. This will reduce residents’ heating and cooling requirements by 75% when compared with average new builds. The 11 new homes in the Victorian married quarters building will be refurbished and retrofitted to a high environmental standard.

Renewable energy will be generated on site using, for example, photovoltaic roof panels. Low-energy heating measures in the homes will include air source heat pumps. All help to reduce carbon footprint and residents’ energy bills.

Across the development, wildlife and urban garden plots will help drainage and reduce overheating risks expected from climate change. A minimum 145 new trees – including fruiting varieties – will be planted and four existing mature trees will be kept. Residents will also be given planters and growing spaces on balconies and in shared gardens where they can meet and help build a thriving community.

Work to clear the site and prepare the land to build on will start this Spring.

Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing, said: “These revised plans meet our commitment to give more residents access to high-quality, affordable housing which supports good health and our climate change ambitions across the city.

“The original site proposals, co-designed with local residents, won the National Housing Design Award 2023. We hope you will continue your involvement and help us build a thriving new community by commenting on these plans before the end of March.”

Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment, said: “All the homes on this exciting site will be zero-carbon in use. Residents’ low energy needs for heating, hot water and lighting will be met on site by renewable energy generation measures such as solar panels.

“The new plans propose wide and car-free shared routes to connect with the wider neighbourhood. Increased cycle and cargo bike parking spaces will help promote healthier, cleaner and more affordable travel choices at this well-connected site.

“Increased green space will help on-site drainage and create places to grow food, play outdoors and help build the community.”

Our revised planning application will go live shortly at www.york.gov.uk/planningportal – please search for ‘New Ordnance Lane’ – and comment on the proposals before the end of March 2024 either:

• online at www.york.gov.uk/planningportal after searching for ‘New Ordnance Lane’
• by email to planning.comments@york.gov.uk
• by post to Development Management, City of York Council, West Offices, York YO1 6GA.