New Campus, The University of York

The University of York’s substantial new campus is located on farmland to the east of Heslington.  The application was the subject of a ‘call-in’ Inquiry and Woodhall provided evidence on the impact of the proposal on the historic environment.  Woodhall acknowledged that the new campus would alter the setting of the Heslington Conservation Area and a new road would adversely affect the Conservation Area and the setting of Grade II Heslington Church.  However, that needed to be balanced against improvements close to Heslington Hall, which is listed Grade II*.

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This assessment was accepted by the Inspector, who stated that, ‘… while the character of the site will change … I do not consider that the setting of the Conservation Area would be materially harmed ….’ and ‘On balance I consider that the overall effect on the character and appearance of the area and the setting of the listed buildings will be neutral ….’  The Secretary of State granted planning permission.