Replacing Leeman Road as a through-route, the new road runs from Salisbury Road to Marble Arch, with dedicated wider pedestrian and cycle paths alongside it.
Designed with sustainability and comfort in mind, the new infrastructure features Hudson Boulevard, a standout walking and cycling route complete with high-quality materials, seating, and a striking central rain garden.
The opening of new travel routes through York Central is evidence of how Homes England is working with local leaders to transform underused, brownfield land into thriving communities and creating places people can be proud of.
Leon Guyett, Project Director on behalf of Homes England and Network Rail, said:
The opening of the new road, walking and cycling routes is a huge step forward for the project, providing safer and more attractive journeys into the city centre for pedestrians, cyclists, bus users and drivers.
This modern infrastructure not only supports sustainable transport but also plays a key role in unlocking the wider York Central development for new homes, public spaces and commercial opportunities.
The second phase of works will see two new bridges constructed over the East Coast Main Line, completing the direct link to Water End. This will further reduce traffic through areas such as Salisbury Terrace and enhance connections for all road users.
Funding from Homes England has supported turning local ambitions into reality, creating well-connected neighbourhoods that support both economic growth and environmental goals.
Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport at City of York Council, commented:
This is a significant milestone for York Central. These new routes help unlock a transformative opportunity for the city—thousands of homes, well-paid jobs and welcoming public spaces.
The improved walking, cycling and bus provision is already making a difference, and Hudson Boulevard in particular is a beautiful and functional new feature. Looking ahead, the new road will ultimately connect directly to Water End, removing through-traffic from nearby residential areas and improving neighbourhood environments.
Matt Mosley, Regional Director for Sisk Infrastructure, added:
Sisk is proud to have delivered this transformative infrastructure. We’ve worked closely with Homes England to create lasting value for York, both economically and socially.
As one of the UK’s largest city centre brownfield regeneration projects, York Central is backed by over £155 million in public funding. Construction on key infrastructure began in 2022 and will ultimately include more than 2km of new roads, bus lanes, pedestrian footpaths and cycleways.
In 2024, McLaren Property and Arlington Real Estate were appointed as development partners to deliver up to 2,500 homes, 1 million square feet of commercial space, a new western entrance to York Station, and extensive new green spaces. At least 20% of the homes will be affordable, and the project is expected to support over 6,500 jobs.
The scheme will also enable a major expansion of the National Railway Museum, enhancing York’s position as a cultural and economic hub.
For the latest updates, visit www.yorkcentral.info or the developer’s website at www.yorkcentral.uk.
About York Central
York Central is one of the UK’s largest city centre regeneration sites. The scheme has unprecedented support from Central, Regional and Local government, with £155m already committed to building key up front infrastructure.
The site is being brought forward by majority landowners and master developers McLaren Property and Arlington Real Estate, Homes England and Network Rail in collaboration with key stakeholders, the City of York Council and the National Railway Museum.
For more information visit: https://www.yorkcentral.info
