NEW housing proposed for the former Terry’s factory site in York has received top marks from a leading design organisation – as councillors prepare to decide today on a planning application.

David Wilson Homes’ scheme for The Chocolate Works site off Campleshon Road – the first phase of which comprises 57 houses, 29 apartments and a retail unit – scored 12 out of 12 in the Design Council’s Building for Life assessment scheme.

In a traffic light appraisal system, the development scored green lights across the board. Assessors praised the designers for how the scheme integrated with its surroundings and linked with the “historic references” of the old Terry’s buildings.

“Every-thing from the site’s layout to the detailing of individual buildings takes its lead from the formal feel of these surroundings,” they said.

Paul Newman, David Wilson Homes’ managing director, said: “It is tremendous not just for us but for the city that one of the most eminent design bodies in the UK has singled out the design of the new homes at The Chocolate Works for such high praise.”

Officers have recommended City of York Council’s planning committee to approve a reserved matters application for the first phase of the development today.