City of York Council has announced a significant £500,000 capital investment over the next two years to revitalise parks, play areas, and public green spaces across the city.
The Executive is set to approve the proposed criteria and prioritisation framework that will guide the funding allocation and ensure the greatest community impact.
This initiative marks the first major investment in York’s public spaces in several years and comes in response to widespread resident support and strategic ambitions laid out in the Council Plan 2023 to 2027. A key focus is ensuring accessible and sustainable outdoor environments that enhance biodiversity, wellbeing, and social inclusion. Work on assessing the conservation needs of our much-valued War Memorials will take place alongside the parks projects.
Strategic Benefits
The funding aligns with national findings from the “Space to Thrive” report by The National Lottery, which highlights the vital role parks play in supporting physical and mental health, community engagement, and local economies. The council aims to amplify these benefits by engaging residents, community organisations, and volunteer groups in improving green spaces citywide.
The decision also aligns with the council’s core commitments to equality and health. By prioritising sites in high deprivation areas and those with ageing infrastructure, the programme seeks to redress inequalities in access to quality recreational space.
Next Steps
Council officers will assess potential projects over the summer, with a final decision on funded schemes to be presented to the Executive this September. Recruitment for a dedicated project officer is already underway to support delivery through March 2027.
Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said: “In investing in our parks and public spaces, we’re not just enhancing infrastructure or play equipment - we’re investing in communities, public health, and a greener future. York people love our parks and have spoken clearly about the value of these shared spaces. This project reflects our commitment to creating a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable city, with people and pride in place at its heart.”
For more information, visit the council’s website or read the Space to Thrive report at Space to Thrive – National Lottery Heritage Fund.