Updated plans for 101 affordable homes at Ordnance Lane in York have been granted planning permission.

The 100% affordable scheme is part of the City of York Council’s Housing Delivery Programme. One of the largest such schemes in the UK, the programme will deliver 600 homes that improve the health of residents and promote a low carbon lifestyle. 

As civil, structural and transport engineers on the project, we’re supporting with achieving the scheme’s social and environmental aspirations. This includes the design of low carbon homes and the retrofit of existing buildings to provide housing, while reducing embodied carbon and retaining heritage character. It also includes the design of sustainable urban drainage and infrastructure to support active travel and sustainable lifestyles. 

The green lit plans include an additional 16 low-energy homes with increased green space. The scheme’s 90 new-build homes are designed to Passivhaus standards and aim for net-zero carbon in operational energy standards using air source heat pumps and integrated photovoltaic panels for energy generation. The 11 new homes, part of the existing Married Quarters, aim for an AECB retrofit standard. 

Our director Paul Morris commented: “A step forward for a fantastic project, which really puts the future of the community at its heart.  

“We’re already seeing the unprecedented effects of climate breakdown globally, which is why it’s critical we create homes and neighbourhoods that are resilient, inclusive and sustainable as we respond to the housing needs of today.  

“Ordnance Lane will deliver healthy, low carbon homes and green space for the community, with urban garden plots to help drainage and reduce overheating. The project sets a high standard for sustainable housing delivery across the UK.”

A minimum of 145 new trees – including fruiting varieties – will be planted and four existing mature trees will be kept across the development. Residents will also be given planters and growing spaces on balconies, and in shared gardens where they can meet and help build a thriving community. [Credit: Mikhail Riches]