IT’S been a long wait but work on the new housing development at York’s former Terry’s site is finally under way.

The chocolate factory closed almost a decade ago and since then there have been a number of plans to redevelop the site. These range from an ambitious wholesale refurbishment, to the latest proposal for more than 200 properties on land off Campleshon Road.

There were times when we wondered if anything might get off the ground, particularly during the recession; the more so when the previous developers were forced to sell back the site.

Which makes the sight of diggers bustling along Knavesmire a welcome one, especially when you consider York’s chronic shortage of homes.

This is another sign that the economy is on the mend and builders are building again, which for those desperate to own their own home will be welcome news.

At present plans are being worked on for the iconic factory buildings, but for now we think the David Wilson Homes estate is a good way to start breathing new life into an old landmark.