Plans for two new York city-centre pubs approved

Ossett Brewery is to turn a currently empty building in Fossgate, which was previously home to Italian restaurant Fellini’s and Leila’s tearooms, into a bar, while Leeds Brewery will open a “family-friendly” pub in King’s Square which has the provisional name of The Duke of York.

Both schemes were given the go-ahead after being debated by City of York Council’s area planning sub-committee.

They are expected to create 15 full-time and 24 part-time jobs between them. Ahead of the planning committee meeting, concerns had been raised by Guildhall councillor Brian Watson – whose ward includes the city-centre – that too many new licensed premises were being allowed to operate in the heart of York in buildings which could be used for business space instead.

The Fossgate proposals drew objections from York Conservation Trust on behalf of tenants living nearby, while local residents also raised fears the new pub would increase litter, noise and antisocial behaviour.

But North Yorkshire Police said other pubs in the area had not led to crime problems.

In a planning statement, agents acting for Ossett Brewery said the plans would bring a vacant building back into use, “enhance the vitality and viability” of the city-centre and would fit in with the area, which already has a number of pubs and restaurants.

Its opening times will be until 12.30am from Monday to Saturday and 11.30pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

The new King’s Square pub will open in St Trinity House, which formerly housed the Your Move estate agency, and operate until 11.30pm Sunday to Wednesday and until 12.30am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Leeds Brewery director Michael Brothwell said: “We really think it will add something to the experience of York for tourists and hopefully for residents as well.

“York has great pubs and a great pub tradition, especially in the area around King’s Square, so we see ourselves as being part of that tradition and adding to the local pub scene.”