Bootham Park Hospital redevelopment plans progress with delivery of public benefits

The redevelopment of Bootham Park Hospital has taken a significant step forward with a comprehensive package of public benefits now set to be delivered.

A programme of initial works has now begun, focused on preserving heritage assets, improving cycling and pedestrian access, and enhancing local sports provision for the community. 

NHS Property Services is working with City of York Council and a contractor to implement the previously consented planning permission for the public works, allowing the full transformation of the site to move forward.

New high-quality football pitches including both 11-a-side and 7-a-side facilities will also be created. These pitches will be made available to local schools and the wider community, with Bootham School managing and maintaining them. These sports pitches will meet Sport England standards and require a comprehensive package of drainage, resurfacing and ground infrastructure improvements. As part of the works, restoration and maintenance will also take place to the historic railings around the site.

Further improvements to the site include new benches and bins, contributing to an enhanced public space for people to relax in and enjoy.

Cycling and pedestrian access will be significantly improved through a formal cycle path running across the site from Union Terrace. Traffic calming measures will also be implemented to enhance safety.

Whilst all efforts will be made to minimise disruption, some temporary impacts on routes through the site are expected during construction. Temporary paths will be provided and agreed with City of York Council to ensure continued access wherever possible.

The initial programme of works is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete, including time for the new sports pitches to establish.

Planning Approval for the redevelopment of the site was achieved in 2023 for older people’s homes, while safeguarding the Grade I-listed main building and other heritage assets on the site. The previous developer did not proceed with the scheme, but NHS Property Services has since maintained and marketed the site.

Adrian Powell, Director of Investment & Development Management for NHS Property Services said:

“We are pleased to facilitate a programme of public benefits at the Bootham Park Hospital site which will preserve heritage assets, enhance cycling and pedestrian access, and deliver new high-quality sports provision for local schools and the wider community.

“We will work closely with partners and contractors to minimise any disruption. These improvements are a condition of the Planning Approval, and we are keen to deliver these public benefits early, to springboard the delivery of the main building back into productive use.”