York’s famous Coney Street, a hub of history and shopping charm, may soon undergo a major facelift—but not everyone is cheering. The Helmsley Group, a development company, has submitted proposals to revamp parts of this popular area. Their plans focus on creating a new riverside hotspot, connecting Coney Street to the River Ouse with a scenic walkway and an exciting waterfront area called Waterloo Place. Although the vision sounds promising, some locals and heritage groups are raising concerns.

What’s in the Plans?

The proposed changes aim to link Coney Street, one of York’s busiest areas, to a vibrant new riverside zone. To make way for this, developers suggest demolishing certain sections of buildings, including part of the Boots store and the back of WH Smith. In their place, a series of modern buildings will rise, housing retail shops, leisure areas, and spaces for people to enjoy along the waterfront. In addition, a new walkway would connect this lively scene to the rest of Coney Street.

The development also includes a vision for tall buildings, ranging from three to five stories, with some even reaching six stories high. The upper floors are designed with student living in mind, offering about 358 rooms and various communal spaces, such as a cinema, gym, and yoga studio. This would cater to York’s growing student population while making better use of unused sections of Coney Street.

The Good, the Bad, and the Historic

While some welcome the idea, not everyone is thrilled about the potential impacts on York’s beloved history and charm. The York Georgian Society, Twentieth Century Society, and Council of British Archaeology have expressed concerns. They’re worried that these modern buildings might overshadow York’s historic atmosphere, especially given the street’s rich heritage. These organizations fear that tearing down old buildings could mean losing pieces of York’s story.

For instance, the York Georgian Society sees Coney Street as a unique treasure, filled with historic architecture and character. They believe that changing too much of it could lead to a loss of identity. Meanwhile, the Council of British Archaeology is particularly concerned about the long-term impact on York’s historical appeal, which draws thousands of tourists every year.

What’s at Stake for the Community?

While some critics focus on heritage preservation, others are more practical. The city council’s highways officers have raised issues about disabled parking spaces in the area, suggesting that the current layout might not be as accessible as it should be. Additionally, some community members think the development could do more to provide housing for locals rather than focusing mainly on student accommodations. They believe York needs more affordable homes for families and workers, not just students.

However, Helmsley Group’s development director, Max Reeves, remains optimistic. He believes the project could benefit the city in many ways. “This development isn’t just welcomed; it’s needed,” he said. He highlights that the project would likely boost visitor numbers, create jobs, and offer green public spaces where people can relax and enjoy the city.

Reeves emphasized that the Helmsley Group has always dreamed of reconnecting Coney Street to the river, bringing new life to the area. According to him, the new spaces would be family-friendly, student-friendly, and a great attraction for visitors. His vision is to create a space where York’s history is not only recognized but celebrated, adding a modern twist to the city’s historic charm.

What’s Next?

For these plans to move forward, York City Council’s planning committee will need to give their approval. A key meeting is scheduled for October 24, where city councillors will discuss the proposal in detail. However, even if the committee approves, there’s still a chance that the government might review it if any historical concerns remain unresolved.

If the plan goes through, the developers envision a place where locals, students, and tourists can come together to experience York in a fresh way. The proposed design includes multiple stores and leisure areas, creating a bustling spot that bridges the old and the new. People would be able to stroll along the riverside, stop for a coffee, shop, or enjoy some entertainment—all while taking in the scenic view of the River Ouse.

Strong Support from York’s Business Groups

Not all responses have been critical. In fact, some local organizations have shown strong support for the project. Groups like York’s Chamber of Commerce, the Business Improvement District (BID), and the Civic Trust believe the plans could revitalize York’s economy and attract more people to the city center.

The Civic Trust noted that Coney Street has been disconnected from the River Ouse for nearly a century, and this development would finally bridge that gap. They argue that reintroducing this river access will open up new opportunities for York and create a much-needed gathering space in the heart of the city.

Balancing Progress with Preservation

York’s dilemma here is familiar to many historic cities: how can it grow and modernize without losing its past? Coney Street has long been a key part of York’s identity, cherished by locals and tourists alike. But as the city’s population grows, especially with students and young professionals, there’s a clear need for more housing, updated public spaces, and modern amenities.

For Max Reeves and the Helmsley Group, the goal is to balance these needs thoughtfully. Reeves promises that the new buildings will reflect York’s architectural style and history while providing new opportunities for leisure and community engagement. He also pointed out that the development’s layout includes green spaces where families and friends can gather, creating a welcoming environment for everyone.