Harrogate property business delighted to take ownership of one of York’s most important development sites

“The Barbican is one of York’s most important sites and securing it is a real milestone for this Harrogate firm”

A Harrogate-based property developer has taken ownership of the main parcel of land on the former Barbican swimming pool site in York, opposite the city's medieval walls.

Artium Group, a property development and investment business based on Cheltenham Crescent in Harrogate, says it is delighted to have taken delivery of one of York's most prominent development sites after its sale by Persimmon Homes.

Thomas Shotton, Managing Director of Artium Group, said: "The Barbican is one of York’s most important sites and securing it is a real milestone for Artium.

"With planning in place and all pre-commencement conditions discharged, we're now in a position to bring it forward.

"We're grateful to Persimmon for their work with York City Council and the constructive way they've worked with us."

The site, which measures approximately 2.14 acres and sits to the east of the Barbican and Staycity Aparthotel in York, has been vacant since the pool closed in 2004.

Planning approval was granted in December last year for 228 apartments, with building heights limited to no higher than the existing Staycity Aparthotel.

In total, 22 per cent of the new homes will be provided as Discount Market Rent (DMR), at a discount below open market value.

Richard Bland, Investment Director of Artium Group, said: "Consented city-centre sites like this are rare, and demand for good-quality homes in York continues to outstrip supply.

“That's why we moved decisively to secure it."

A Persimmon Yorkshire spokesperson said: "We're pleased to see the redevelopment of this site take another major step forward.

"Unlocking the potential of this site will not only add to York's housing needs but also signal a further endorsement of investment in York alongside the exciting plans for York Central."