Planners have given the green-light to York’s first zero carbon hotel.
City-based property investment and development specialist Helmsley Group has received approval for the 82-bedroom six-storey venture,
It will be one of the first to generate net zero greenhouse gas emissions in the country.
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Located on the currently derelict Mill House car park site, off North Street in York city centre, the building will have a BREEAM target rating of excellent.
This means during construction, the greenest alternatives to traditional construction will be used. The carbon output from construction will be minimised and where it can’t be, will be offset.
The design also includes sustainable features such as solar PV, air source heat pumps and a biodiverse green wall. No car parking spaces will be provided in order to reduce carbon emissions and to support City of York Council in meeting its climate change targets.
It will not feature a bar or restaurant either as Helmsley wants to encourage use of surrounding hospitality businesses.
Max Reeves, development director, said: “The approval of our plans for the Mill House site is good news for the city of York, as we not only enhance an underutilised space, but create a building of architectural and environmental high standards that will make a positive contribution to the surrounding area and wider city economy.
“We are grateful to City of York Council for its support and acknowledgement that our proposals will preserve the appearance and character of the conservation area and nearby listed buildings and places of worship, as well as being considerate to neighbouring residents by not including a food and beverage offer.”
It comes just weeks after the company completed a major regenerative jigsaw of property assembly with the latest retail deal in the city centre.
