DEVELOPERS have submitted their plans for a major housing development on former chocolate factory land in York.

Last month North Yorkshire based developers Newby revealed plans for the Cocoa West site at a public consultation event.

Now the company has submitted a planning application for the land between Haxby Road and Wigginton Road - although with fewer new homes than previously thought. According to Newby, its plans include 425 new homes and apartments, less than the 600 suggested in April’s consultation.

The company says it has worked closely with Nestle, the city council and people in the area, and the plans include open space, community facilities, parking and small scale commercial uses.

Nick Moody, director at Newby, said: “We are excited to submit planning proposals for such a significant regeneration project for York. We have worked closely with the public, local businesses and the City of York Council to provide a proposal that we hope will realise the full potential of the area, as well as safeguard the future of this strategic site.

“The proposed new scheme will deliver much needed new homes for the residents of York in an accessible location that is within walking distance of the city centre and is also well positioned along the Sustrans cycle route.”

Newby already has permission to convert the empty Rowntree Almond and Cream buildings into 258 flats and work is due to start in September.

The land to the west of those buildings has been vacant for around eight years following the demolition of the old factory buildings in 2010.