Affordable living: York’s housing programme

As part of the City of York Council's pledge to meet net-zero carbon targets by 2030, it has launched an ambitious housing programme to build 600 new Passivhaus-certified homes across several sites.

With the average home in York costing 10.9 times the average earnings, plus a 10% rise in rents over the past year and escalating energy costs, the need for affordable, energy-efficient housing has never been greater. The council's new Plan, 'One City, for all,’ is committed to addressing these challenges by increasing the supply of high-quality, affordable homes with outstanding energy efficiency and minimal emissions. Creating 100% affordable homes is a cornerstone of this commitment.

Ordnance Lane, image © Mikhail Riches/ Darc Studio I Cllr Michael Pavlovic, City of York Council quote: On our Ordnance Lane site alone, we’re doubling the high-quality Passivhaus housing that will be affordable to rent, buy and run, from around 50 to 100 homes.

The council is collaborating with an interdisciplinary team, including PHT member Mikhail Riches architects and Passivhaus consultant PHT Patron WARM, to bring this city-wide Passivhaus housing programme to life.

Duncombe Square: Completion of 34 homes is expected by the end of 2024.
Burnholme Green: Construction of 78 homes is underway, with completion expected by mid-2025.
Ordnance Lane: A planning decision for 101 homes is anticipated in August.

Duncombe Square, brick wall construction I Image © Adam Haper

Duncombe Square, wall insulation construction I Image © Adam Haper

Duncombe Square, brick corbelling I Image © Evermill Brickwork

Join us to learn more

Do not miss the opportunity to hear a progress update directly from the council at the 2024 UK Passivhaus Conference. If you're a local authority or social housing provider, this is your chance to gain invaluable insights into York's pioneering approach to affordable, sustainable housing.

Thanks to generous sponsorship, a limited number of complimentary tickets are available to social housing providers. Please book with your work email address or your ticket may be cancelled! Join us in Oxford (or online) on the 19 September 2024. Secure your spot and be part of this transformative movement in housing.