The vision for Langwith Village was established over a decade ago, with a need being identified for a new standalone settlement capable of delivering approximately 3,330 new homes.
These homes will be supported by the schools, shops, employment space and green infrastructure needed for a sustainable and thriving community. Since 2016, the project has been shaped through planning policy, technical assessment and, increasingly, conversations with a diverse range of stakeholders and community representatives. The timeline below charts the project’s progress to date and the key milestones that will guide its next chapter.
Timeline
Site identification
2016Land west of Elvington Lane was put forward as a potential strategic housing site through the City of York Local Plan’s Preferred Sites Consultation.
Allocation proposed
2018The site was identified for a new garden village, Langwith, under Policy SS13 (site reference ST15) in the Local Plan’s Publication Draft. It became one of the most significant strategic allocations in the city’s long-term growth strategy.
Independent Examination
2019 – 2024The allocation was evaluated through five phases of public hearings as part of the Local Plan’s independent examination, conducted by Inspectors appointed by the Secretary of State.
Local Plan adopted
2025The City of York Local Plan was formally adopted, confirming Langwith Village’s allocation and setting the precedent for the new settlement.
Shaping the Vision
Early 2026City of York Council, supported by the Langwith Development Partnership, organised Place-Based Indicators (PBI) workshops. These workshops brought together residents, local organisations and stakeholders to define the qualities and outcomes needed for a successful garden village, covering wellbeing, sustainability, movement, green infrastructure, heritage, economic opportunity and community identity.
Development Charter
Summer 2026Findings from the PBI workshops are being used to prepare a Development Charter, setting out the vision, objectives and place-making principles for the site, along with how communities will remain involved as the project progresses.
Shaping the Plan
September 2026A series of Enquiry by Design (EbD) workshops will bring together technical specialists, community representatives and key stakeholders to explore ideas for Langwith Village. The workshops will help test emerging design concepts and inform the development of the masterplan, including approaches to movement, landscape, green infrastructure and community facilities.
Public Consultation
October 2026The findings from the Enquiry by Design process will help shape the emerging masterplan, which will be presented as part of a public consultation. This will provide an opportunity for local residents, businesses and stakeholders to review the proposals and share their feedback.
Design Code
December 2026A Design Code will be prepared, translating feedback from the Enquiry by Design process and public consultation into a clear framework for future development. Covering areas such as housing design, public spaces, connectivity and placemaking, the Design Code will be submitted alongside the outline planning application.
