Willow House development site and South Walmgate Masterplan
Artist’s impression of Long Close Lane looking towards Walmgate Bar.
The Willow House development aims to create 36 high-quality affordable homes within the character of this historic local area. The homes will help meet local housing needs, enhance green spaces and support York's response to climate change.
Alongside the development, the Walmgate Neighbourhood Improvement Plan will help bring positive changes to the local area including improved access to the high street and more community use of open spaces.
Willow House development site
Planning permission for 36 new affordable homes, along with new and improved green spaces, was granted in May 2026 after consultation and engagement with the Walmgate community.
Sustainability is at the heart of the scheme. The homes will be low carbon in operation, with roofs designed to generate solar energy through photovoltaic (PV) panels.
The scheme will provide 36 homes. They will be a mix of mostly one and two-bedroomed apartments and houses. When competed, 40% will be for shared ownership, and 60% will be for social rent which will be let in line with the Council’s local lettings policy. This will include local people, as well as existing tenants moving out of larger homes to free them for bigger households.
At the heart of the development will be a landscaped community space where residents can meet, relax and play. The design includes public spaces, shared community areas and private gardens, creating a range of outdoor spaces to enjoy.
Illustration of the Willow House development.
Walmgate engagement activities
Neighbourhood studies and community engagement were carried out in 2021.
A public engagement event, "Chat and Chips - Meet the Design Team", was held at Huby Court on 18 July 2024. More than 100 local residents attended to hear about early proposals, share their views and discuss ideas for the future of Willow House and the wider South Walmgate area.
"Tea in the Yard" session was held for neighbouring residents in September 2024.
3 Community Design Panel meetings were held in October 2024.
Wider improvements to South Walmgate
A Neighbourhood Improvement Plan for the area has been taking shape following a series of consultations involving residents.
Work to enhance the local high street for shoppers and businesses, forms part of this plan.
Current Stage - preparing the site ahead of building
The project has now moved into the demolition and groundworks preparation phase.
Key milestones
Work to begin clearing the site and demolishing the Willow House building itself and various outbuildings began on 7 September 2026. This is expected to be completed by Spring 2027.