Plans for a major development of student housing on the site of a city centre supermarket have been revised following public consultation.

Argo Real Estate Ltd and student accommodation developer and operator Fusion Group are now seeking further feedback on detailed proposals concerning the Sainsbury’s site at Foss Bank.

The partners say that after consultation with City of York Council and others, they have amended their proposals to include extra green open spaces and the scheme covering less ground.

The proposed development no longer includes the Foss Bank car park, which will remain leased to City of York Council.

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A screening opinion submitted to the city council says the scheme seeks the demolition of the retail buildings to replace with 1,450 beds of student accommodation, 175 beds of ‘co-living accommodation, and 500m2 of commercial space.

The developers say their proposals would deliver 9.44m2 of open space per bedroom, which they say is “significantly more than other comparable student-led developments in York.”

“The scheme includes a range of student homes and co-living spaces which appeal to a diverse range of students, young professionals, and others who want to benefit from a community-centric living environment.”

(Image: Pic supplied)

The Foss Bank proposals, they continued, will provide a long-term future for this site which will soon be unused when Sainsbury’s closes in early 2025. GO Outdoors has already relocated to Monks Cross.

Julian Evans, Land and Planning Director at Fusion Group said: “We are grateful for the initial feedback from the community and stakeholders regarding our vision to regenerate Foss Bank

“The proposals are a significant opportunity to breathe new life into this historic setting with a landscape-led, high-quality neighbourhood with sustainability at its heart.

“We look forward to continuing our discussions with the local community and stakeholders, so please join us for this second public consultation”.

A public drop-in exhibition will take place on Thursday November 21 at Doubletree by Hilton hotel on St Maurice’s Road from 3pm until 7pm.

Residents will be able to provide further feedback with the development team.

Views can also be provided at the consultation website: www.fossbank-consultation.co.uk.

Following public consultation, a planning application will be prepared and submitted to City of York Council in the New Year for determination later in the year.