The Retreat, a pioneering Georgian estate in York established by a Quaker philanthropist, could be converted into homes. Developer PJ Livesey has submitted a planning application to York Council for the scheme.

Now known as the Heslington Road Estate, it sits south east of the city and spans 37 acres. The submission, by specialist developers the PJ Livesey Group, follows months of consultation with heritage experts and the general public.

The finalised scheme would see all the heritage buildings retained The plan is for 95 homes, 84 of which will be conversion of existing buildings and 11 new build. A recreation hall would be retained as a multi-use space available to the community and the expansive grounds would be restored and improved.

The estate was established in 1796 by Quaker Willian Tuke, who believed mental health and physical activity were linked and created The Retreat, a place where the grounds offered recreational facilities and open space to support mental health care.

The Georgian Retreat, aka the Heslington Road estate in York

In patient services closed at The Retreat in 2018 and new centres of excellencefor outpatients were established in other locations.

Hundreds of people who visited the site over summer and attended the consultation events unanimously agreed that the site should be used to create new homes for the city with the expansive grounds protected and preserved.

PJ Livesey Land Director, James Woodmansee, said: “Since being named as preferred developer for this unique asset we have listened closely to the views of heritage experts, local planners and local people and initial plans have significantly evolved.

“We believe the proposals now submitted will not only preserve the unique character of this place but also provide York with homes of history and quality.

“The grounds, including a flourishing orchard, would be maintained and the Quaker Burial Ground would be unaffected by the proposals.

“Heslington Road is a very special place which has played a significant role in York’s history and these proposals will respect that with plans for a heritage trail telling the story of The Retreat.”

PJ Livesey specialise in the conversion of heritage buildings converted the former Terry's Cchocolate factory building in York.

Planning application to turn the historic Heslington Road Estate in York into homes