A YORK village faces major development after a housing trust submitted proposals for a new care home in the centre.

Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust has drawn up its plans for New Earswick, which include a major new 175-bed care home, alterations to the Folk Hall, the demolition of the former library and tennis clubhouse, and relocation of the play area.

Residents in New Earswick last year raised worries that the development would swallow up much-loved green space in the village and irrevocably change its character. The scheme will now be scrutinised by planning specialists at City of York Council.

The trust's executive director John Hocking said: “Our vision for the continuing evolution of New Earswick will address the growing demand for people looking to downsize to smaller supported accommodation in New Earswick and York, releasing much-needed family accommodation and bring its original garden village character back into the heart of the town.

"We’ve consulted with residents to find out what they want to see in their community and make sure that the area continues to meet residents’ needs into the future. We’ve submitted plans for a new public space including lawns, gardens and a square which can be used for community events like pop-up markets, village fetes, food growing and as a meeting space.

"We would also like to create a new arts and crafts garden to link community buildings in the centre of the village, and move the popular children’s play area and sports courts to more suitable locations nearby."

The care home development includes extra care and sheltered housing, with landscaped gardens, and has been designed to fit in with the "spirit of the original ethos" of the Rowntree-built village, a design and access statement says.

Mr Hocking added: “The redevelopment of Red Lodge will future proof the care home, meaning that residents can stay in their homes as their needs change and allow us to meet increasing demand for services.

"We have also submitted plans for minor improvements to the Folk Hall, to make it more accessible and open it up to use for community events."

The housing trust is staging an exhibition about the plans at The Garth and Folk Hall in New Earswick from Monday, April 27 and is planning a further a community information event in the village.