A substantial £2.5 billion investment is being poured on a regeneration project in which aims to transform brownfield land, located near the city’s railway station and the National Railway Museum.

Joint venture development partners McLaren Property and Arlington Real Estate aim for 2,500 new homes (20% affordable), commercial and retail space, two brand new civic squares and an extensive park and public realm.

It is estimated that this project will also bring in 6,500 job opportunities.

Tom Gilman, regional managing director of McLaren property, said in statement on the York Central website: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the city and a milestone moment in the delivery of York Central. We are committed and passionate about providing much needed new homes, best in class commercial space, along with substantial green space, enhanced public realm and amenities, all of which will bring significant economic benefits and local jobs.”

This project is also designed to bring York a brand new 200 bed contemporary hotel and a world class museum, an attraction which will no doubt bring in tourists and enhance local pride.

As for now, a new route through York Central is planned to open in 2025, this will include wider pedestrian paths, cycleways, high-quality paving and new lighting. The first phase will provide an upgraded alternative for locals, running from Salisbury Road to ‘Marble Arch.’