New details about a proposed arts and culture centre in York have emerged as part of plans for projects which could generate billions, provided they get financial backing.
The 1,000 sq m Creative Chrysalis, initially requiring an estimated £3 million investment, would provide a space to support festivals, artists, new talent and York’s position as a regional cultural hub.
“Building on the cultural vibrancy of York, this will be a new arts and exhibition space in the middle of the city that will welcome world-class artists and provide space to showcase emerging talent in a cutting-edge environment that can act as a springboard for future
artistic success,” the York Propsectus reads.
“York will be recognised as the beating heart of culture and creativity in the region, cementing its status as a home for artists of all backgrounds.”
The Creative Chrysalis is just one of a number of projects put forward in the York Prospectus, an ambitious long-term plan for growth.
Others include a world-leading Centre for Heritage, Bio-Yorkshire Campus of research facilities and labs, a business enterprise zone and construction skills centre.
City of York Council economy lead Cllr Pete Kilbane said the projects aimed to lock in well-paid jobs, affordable homes and better public spaces – and could generate £12 billion in social value.
But they would require significant public and private investment.
All the projects in the prospectus would require capital investment of £1.2 billion, according to analysis commissioned by the council.
Events and research
This go before a council meeting on Tuesday (3 February).
The document was first approved in November by the council’s leader who said it would help the projects move to the next stage of their development.
Sewells Advisory, who were commissioned by the council to carry out the analysis, found the projects could generate a combined £12.1 billion in economic, social and environmental benefits.
The Creative Chrysalis could generate a total of £124 million of ‘social value’, according to the analysis which found it could return £37.82 for every pound invested.
It would aim to showcase world-class and emerging talent and strengthen York’s role as the UK’s only UNESCO City of Media Arts.
Proposals for a Centre for Heritage could see part of the city centre regenerated to create a space for research and events to reinforce York’s role in the visitor economy.
The prospectus also features plans for a Cordukes Business Enterprise Zone at York St John Univerity to nuture small firms.
A Bio-Yorkshire Campus would offer education, training and skills programmes along with research space for scientists and businesses.
The prospectus also includes the dualling of the York Outer Ring Road and ongoing Station Gateway scheme, which face combined funding shortfalls of around £118 million.
It also includes the planned new £24 million Haxby Station which the government has pledged £3.5 million towards following uncertainty after the Restoring Your Railways fund was axed in 2024.
Council leader Cllr Claire Douglas said benefits of the proposed schemes included the creation of more than 40,000 construction jobs and 2,700 operational roles.
She said: “Last year we approved an ambitious long-term plan for York’s future, providing a practical framework for delivery shaped by local priorities.
“This feedback will help us take the next steps, working with partners and talking to potential investors so that we can attract the necessary funding to deliver these projects.”
Cllr Kilbane said it came after PwC found York was the top UK city for good growth.
He said: “The York Prospectus aims to make sure everyone benefits from our economic success, we can’t do this alone though.
“Delivering these projects will require significant private and public sector investment and we will work with partners across the city and beyond to explore all options available to us.”
