Joe Gerrard

Plans for a 30-metre 5G mast at Broad Lane in Nether Poppleton, near York, have been approved by City of York Council. The lattice mast will replace the existing 28.6-metre structure, retain 2G, 3G and 4G services, and add 5G through six antennas and two dishes. Cornerstone said the upgrade would improve connectivity and pose no health concerns; no objections were lodged against the proposal.

The Chapter of York has submitted plans to transform York Minster’s Old Palace Library and surrounding area near Dean’s Park into a museum, educational centre and formal sensory garden. The proposals aim to preserve the Minster’s historic collections, support community wellbeing and improve learning facilities, but the project depends on raising sufficient funds. York Minster attracts more than 700,000 visitors annually, and the Chapter says developing a viable, sustainable business is essential to financing the building’s future care.

City of York Council approved a Ministry of Justice plan to install fire detection equipment in nine holding cells at York Crown Court after concerns that the absence of heat and smoke detectors put prisoners and staff at risk. Planning officers said the minor harm to the Grade I listed building was outweighed by the safety benefits. The work forms part of a national programme following findings that a significant portion of prison accommodation did not meet fire safety standards. The design aims to minimise impact on the historic fabric while improving protection for defendants and custody staff.

A proposal by Pure Cremation to convert a unit at York Business Park into a regional mortuary capable of holding up to 700 bodies outlines plans for a secure, discreet facility supporting around 35 jobs and serving the North East. The application to City of York Council details private ambulance transfers and low‑impact operations intended to remain unobtrusive to nearby businesses.

City of York Council rejected York St John University’s proposal to install photovoltaic slates on the Grade II listed Quad South Chapel, concluding the work would harm the building’s historic character. The university argued the refurbishment, including roof replacement and insulation, would support conservation and net‑zero goals, while York Civic Trust objected that the solar slates would be visually intrusive. Planning officers determined the renewable‑energy benefits did not outweigh the identified heritage impact.

Councillors approved six additional event days for Futuresound to hold concerts in York’s Museum Gardens in 2027, half of what was requested, following concerns about noise and resident disruption. The venue’s trust argued the income is essential, while residents and council officers warned of increased disturbance and citywide noise travel. Police withdrew objections after the reduced proposal, and supporters highlighted tourism and economic benefits. Organisers committed to monitoring impacts and adjusting operations in response to feedback.

Plans submitted to York Council propose repairs to the historic Masonic Hall on St Saviourgate, addressing damage caused by water run-off, moisture and deteriorating paintwork. The work includes stripping failing paint, fixing compromised render and clearing blocked rainwater pipes, with scaffolding erected while keeping the road open. The application states the repairs aim to restore the building’s appearance and prevent further decay, preserving its architectural character.

Councillors approved a new footbridge connecting Holgate with the York Central development despite 14 objections. Network Rail’s representative described the Wilton Rise bridge as essential for unlocking economic benefits, while opponents raised safety and accessibility concerns. The new bridge will include benches, rest areas, and segregated routes for pedestrians and cyclists, and will replace the existing Victorian-era structure. York Access Forum warned of risks to visually impaired and mobility-impaired users, but planners supported the project as key infrastructure for the wider regeneration scheme.

Authorities approved temporary street signs to help visitors reach the National Railway Museum in York after outdated online maps sent tourists along incorrect routes. The museum attributed the confusion to road changes linked to its Central Hall construction and wider redevelopment of the Leeman Road area. Thirty-six banners will guide visitors from the city centre and train station, with no objections submitted to the plan, though York Civic Trust urged that the signage remain temporary.

Plans to replace York’s Victorian Wilton Rise footbridge with an accessible link to the £2bn York Central development have been recommended for approval despite safety objections. Network Rail and the development team argue the new bridge would improve access, including for wheelchair users and parents with prams, and serve as key infrastructure for the project. Disability and community groups warn the shared-use design could endanger blind, partially sighted or mobility‑impaired people and increase antisocial behaviour. Fourteen objections were submitted, while planning officers advised approval ahead of a council committee decision on 9 July.

Traffic congestion outside York Hospital is attributed to several contributing factors, with local officials warning that improvements will take time. City of York Council is working with York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust on short‑term measures, though immediate solutions are unlikely. Concerns raised by councillors include dangerous driving, long delays, and unreliable bus services, prompting a petition of nearly 2,000 signatures. Cost‑free options such as improved travel guidance and alternative parking information are under review.