Chocolate Works Care Village
Chocolate Works Care Village
The York Chocolate Works Care Village stands as a remarkable testament to the revitalisation of historical industrial sites into thriving, innovative, and inclusive communities. Situated in the heart of York, England, this development has rejuvenated the former Terry’s Chocolate Factory, an iconic part of the city’s industrial heritage.
Production moved to Eastern Europe in the early 2000s and the York factory closed in 2005 with the loss of 317 jobs. This ended 238 years of history since the company’s humble beginnings in 1767.
Bought by developers, Grantside consulted the local community on developing the site, renamed The Chocolate Works. In 2010, planning permission was granted for a £165 million mixed-use project, consisting of residential, commercial and leisure amenities. Redevelopment started in 2011, with asbestos removal by trained and certified contractors, followed by demolition of non-scheduled buildings in 2012.
In 2013, the site changed hands once again, as it was acquired by joint developers Henry Boot Developments and David Wilson Homes. These ambitious plans were further enriched by the collaborative support of companies such as Bowman Riley (Masterplanner), FDA Landscape (Initial designs) and Reform (Landscape Architects).
Project
Location
Contractor
Landscape Architect
The York Chocolate Works Care Village stands as a remarkable testament to the revitalisation of historical industrial sites into thriving, innovative, and inclusive communities. Situated in the heart of York, England, this development has rejuvenated the former Terry’s Chocolate Factory, an iconic part of the city’s industrial heritage.
Production moved to Eastern Europe in the early 2000s and the York factory closed in 2005 with the loss of 317 jobs. This ended 238 years of history since the company’s humble beginnings in 1767.
Bought by developers, Grantside consulted the local community on developing the site, renamed The Chocolate Works. In 2010, planning permission was granted for a £165 million mixed-use project, consisting of residential, commercial and leisure amenities. Redevelopment started in 2011, with asbestos removal by trained and certified contractors, followed by demolition of non-scheduled buildings in 2012.
In 2013, the site changed hands once again, as it was acquired by joint developers Henry Boot Developments and David Wilson Homes. These ambitious plans were further enriched by the collaborative support of companies such as Bowman Riley (Masterplanner), FDA Landscape (Initial designs) and Reform (Landscape Architects).
Project
Location
Contractor
Landscape Architect
Project
Location
Contractor
Landscape Architect
Providing an excess of 94% soil by volume, StrataCell tree pits are distinctly more advantageous, providing optimum conditions for trees to live and flourish.
An integral aspect of the Chocolate Works is the extensive tree-planting initiative that has transformed the site into a green and sustainable environment. The grand entrance to the site is graced by six Carpinus Betula trees, which provide an air of opulence and quality, in line with Terry’s Chocolate’s historical significance and importance.
In 2015, the Stratacell 60 series was purchased and installed by Bemus Construction. Engineering to exacting specifications, Stratacell brings tree-root systems closer to pavement surfaces, with the capacity to support greater vertical loads with a minimal granular pavement depth of 300mm. Its meticulously designed matrix units interlock seamlessly, forming a robust framework with expectational modular strength. The secure connectors make installation swift and straightforward.
To enhance the above-ground aesthetics, the scheme also included aeration points for airflow within the tree pits and galvanised Castle Tree Grilles to maintain a high-quality appearance.
Notably, the Chocolate Works received the ‘Winner of the Insider Yorkshire Property Awards Best Residential Scheme in 2016’.
Providing an excess of 94% soil by volume, StrataCell tree pits are distinctly more advantageous, providing optimum conditions for trees to live and flourish.
An integral aspect of the Chocolate Works is the extensive tree-planting initiative that has transformed the site into a green and sustainable environment. The grand entrance to the site is graced by six Carpinus Betula trees, which provide an air of opulence and quality, in line with Terry’s Chocolate’s historical significance and importance.
In 2015, the Stratacell 60 series was purchased and installed by Bemus Construction. Engineering to exacting specifications, Stratacell brings tree-root systems closer to pavement surfaces, with the capacity to support greater vertical loads with a minimal granular pavement depth of 300mm. Its meticulously designed matrix units interlock seamlessly, forming a robust framework with expectational modular strength. The secure connectors make installation swift and straightforward.
To enhance the above-ground aesthetics, the scheme also included aeration points for airflow within the tree pits and galvanised Castle Tree Grilles to maintain a high-quality appearance.
Notably, the Chocolate Works received the ‘Winner of the Insider Yorkshire Property Awards Best Residential Scheme in 2016’.
In March 2023, following a £60,000 renovation project, the clock in the tower of the original Chocolate Works resumed its operation after a 15-year pause. The former factory site on Bishopthorpe Road remains a prominent landmark within the city. Terry’s of York continues to be an integral part of York’s chocolate legacy, with the beloved Terry’s chocolate orange retaining its special place in the hearts of many.
For further inspiration from historical redevelopment case studies, please visit our case study web page.
In March 2023, following a £60,000 renovation project, the clock in the tower of the original Chocolate Works resumed its operation after a 15-year pause. The former factory site on Bishopthorpe Road remains a prominent landmark within the city. Terry’s of York continues to be an integral part of York’s chocolate legacy, with the beloved Terry’s chocolate orange retaining its special place in the hearts of many.
For further inspiration from historical redevelopment case studies, please visit our case study web page.
