Developer pushes for York Roman Quarter approval following "overwhelming thumbs up”

The partnership behind The Roman Quarter plans in York has called for a quick decision on the proposed development.

Local developer North Star and York Archaeological Trust have urged the city’s council to approve plans for the quarter after “overwhelming” support on social media.

Under the plans, three buildings on Rougier Street – Northern House, Rougier House and Society Bar – will be replaced with a new building and Roman tourist attraction.

In addition, the development is also set to comprise new homes, retail units, offices and leisure space.

According to the partnership, online polls were conducted last week on Twitter and Instagram, with 93 per cent of the 550 participants backing the planning application.

A spokesperson for North Star commented: “Since we launched the project last year we have been overwhelmed with the enthusiasm and support from the community in York.

“We are continuing to work with the council, and other stakeholders, and would like to get a positive decision as soon as we can so we can deliver this fantastic project. We [hope for] a decision from councillors by the end of the year.

“In these uncertain economic times, The Roman Quarter will give a major boost to the city centre and raise the profile of the city across the world.

“Both the council and government want to ‘build back better’ and this is the perfect opportunity to do so, both economically and physically – replacing an ugly ‘detractor’ building on this key site.”