Progress on Yorke Drive regeneration project

Councillor Lee Brazier, Portfolio Holder for Housing at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Newark and Sherwood District Council remains absolutely committed to the Yorke Drive estate and the delivery of this important project which will see improvements on the estate for residents.

“I completely understand that the delays to the project have been frustrating and worrying to residents who live on Yorke Drive. This is such an important development and impacts so many people that it has been vital that we get it right and this has taken some time. 

“Throughout the project we have continued to talk with residents and partner organisations who identified some elements of the original plans that we have since re-designed. This is to ensure the project meets the needs and expectations of those living on Yorke Drive. Key adaptions to the plans include:

• Reducing the number of homes on the site from a maximum of 320 to 207 including a mix of private and social homes in different sizes suitable for a range of families while still ensuring all those who wish to stay on the site have a home
• More open and recreational space and better pitches and facilities at the sports pavilion,
• A more attractive and welcoming entrance to the estate
• Homes to future homes standard including electric vehicle charge points.

“These re-designed plans were submitted for planning permission in October 2024 and they are due for decision at Planning Committee early next year. While the planning process is independent and planning policy will inform the outcome of the application, personally I am hopeful, that subject to approval, the project can really get underway in 2025, and residents will soon be able to see tangible progress.

“In addition, we will also continue to negotiate with Homes England to increase the affordable housing on Yorke Drive through potential grant funding.

“We will continue to talk regularly with residents living on Yorke Drive throughout this project and I would like to reiterate once again that we are committed to making sure Yorke Drive is a great place to live with new homes that meet the latest specifications. This is absolutely a priority for the District Council.”