THE site of a York store which was destroyed by fire more than two years ago is set to be redeveloped as a business park which could create up to 100 jobs.

The former B&M store at Clifton Moor was gutted in a blaze in October, 2018, at a time when the area was busy with shoppers.

An investigation later concluded that the fire was started in a storage yard by a discarded cigarette or lighter, was "fanned by high winds" and rapidly spread to the store.

Now Marrtree Investments, which has a portfolio of more than 20 business parks across the north of England, has acquired the 2.4-acre site and has plans to develop a commercial scheme.

The Harrogate-based firm, which purchased the site from London property investment firm New River, says it will shortly be submitting a planning application to City of York Council and is taking a flexible approach to the development of the land.

Director William Marshall said that, subject to obtaining a 'satisfactory planning outcome,' the development would consist of very high quality business units that York could be proud of.

"We’re looking forward to engaging with City of York planners to ensure the development will be of significant benefit to the city,” he said.

“This Clifton Moor site offers us a significant opportunity to develop the modern high-spec accommodation that is synonymous with Marrtree developments, and of which the York market is in short supply.”

The business has already recently completed the first, £3m, phase of a £5.5m Marrtree Business Park at Sowerby Gateway, the new 85-acre, 950-home development near Thirsk.

The 40,000 ft first phase has tenants, including Screwfix and Toolstation, signed up for nine of the 15 units and is expected to create 80 jobs when it is fully let. Phase II, consisting of 30,000 sq ft, is currently being considered by Hambleton District Council.

Investments director George Marshall said: “As a business we are all about creating employment hubs in the north of England, providing the kind of modern and high-quality space that people actively want to work in.

"Accessibility is also crucial and Clifton Moor is well located for road links, with dualling and other improvements planned for the outer ring road in the next couple of years.”

He added: “As we emerge from the challenges of the pandemic and look to the future, it’s more important than ever that we ensure our new developments have longevity and create a built environment everyone can be proud of.

"That is what we plan to do here at Clifton Moor.”