The business start-up and social space to be created in a shipping container complex in Piccadilly is on track to open in September, the directors of Spark: York say.

And containers are already being converted into retail units in Leeds before they arrive in York to transform the derelict city centre site of the former Reynards Garage into a temporary hub to shop, eat and drink and socialise.

York Press:

Joe Gardham, one of Spark: York directors, said: "The project is on track and the physical build is underway with the containers being fitted out to create 24 units.

"We'll be starting work on the site to bring in services and by the end of August we hope to get the containers here. It will take about ten days to construct the site."

It is hoped that Spark:York will launch by September 22 in time for start of the York Food Festival.

Mr Gardham said the 24 businesses that will occupy the units have now been chosen, following interviews with 76 following applications from 262 businesses.

"Our criteria is all the tenants are independent, local and have a social purpose to do good.

He revealed there will be 11 food outlets, comprising two restaurants, two cafés, seven street food outlets and up to four bars and also nine retailers.

“Our tenants will be surrounded by businesses that reflect their own ethics, creativity and customer base. Spark will offer free, hand-on business support and advice – drawing on a bank of local, experienced professionals. We will also offer hot desking office spaces to other entrepreneurs with a social purpose.

“Our ambition is to have a lasting economic impact on York by building resilient, confident organisations who, after the three-year lifespan of the project, are able to secure tenancies in some of the many empty premises across the city centre.

"And our tenants will show that social good can be achieved and this will thrown down a challenge to other city businesses."

Mr Gardham said community partnerships are being made with not for profit groups with the aim of offering pay-as-you-feel events and activities for low-income families and for older people to help fight social isolation.

You can have a first look at the project by taking a virtual walk through Spark:York by clicking on the 3D video