April 2022 Issue No 26
Email: chair@cwra.co.uk
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Development Update
Completion of the development is planned for the end of April 2022. Access through to the Residence via Robert Street and Clock Tower Way is now opened up for pedestrians and cyclists with bollards being located at the top of Robert Street to prevent vehicular access (except emergency services access).
Co-op new Appeal 20/02501/FUL
An Appeal has been lodged by the Co-op to the Secretary of State in an attempt to overturn a City of York Council ruling that the store must close at 10pm. The Co-op is appealing to restore the 11pm closing which it had requested in the original planning application.
If, like us, you wish to object to an increase in hours, please email erik.matthews@york.gov.uk expressing your concerns about the change, citing Planning Application 20/02501/FUL. Please do so before 26 April. The latest information we have is that work on the Co-op building may not begin for two to three months due to delays in sourcing of materials.
Landscaping on Bayldon Square
We are currently working with Watson and DWH to try and secure the new scheme opposite the Chocolate Orange sculpture to include block paving, a circular bench and planting. In addition, a plaque has been ordered and will be installed on the wall of the sculpture to highlight its significance to Terry’s and the Chocolate Works.
Landscaping Final Survey
A final landscaping survey between the Residents’ Association and DWH resulted in a positive discussion on the outstanding works required. We are pleased to report that DWH has noted all points and will commence the replacement of all dead items including shrubs and trees, and replant the bare areas during April. Forty trees have now been planted although the replacement of the dead shrubs has been hampered by supply issues.
Planning application 21/02679/TPO – Tree Preservation Order
Work has been completed as per the above planning application, although the area behind Thistle House still requires attention with the reintroduction of the bank and tree planting to seamlessly match the rest of the scheme. A wooden knee rail fence has also been discussed as a security option to replace the dead laurel plants. In addition, the area immediately behind Thistle House needs to be levelled properly and seeded with grass and wild flowers.
The final phase will be the removal of the builder’s yard to the side of Thistle House and replaced by landscaping and a footpath. We are also checking if a street lamp is planned for the above area to illuminate Joseph Terry Grove.
Welcome Letters
DWH is nearing completion of the site, and there will be a number of new residents moving into the development. To remind us all, Watson will be sending Welcome Letters to all residents in April with details on how we can all make the Chocolate Works a great place to live. If you are a landlord, please ensure your tenant(s) receives the letter.
Fire Marshalls
We are pleased to report that residents have come forward and we have nearly all apartment blocks covered with the exception of Neapolitan and Hallmark Houses.
If you feel you can assist in above, please email us on chair@cwra.co.uk.
Roof GRP Guarantees
Despite a number of reminders, DWH has yet to forward the sub-contractor insurance-backed 10 year guarantees for the GRP channels to Watson for safe keeping.
Parking
There appears to be a belief in some quarters that CWRA is the body that has drawn-up the parking rules on the development. We would like to clarify that the 12 hour stay period for visitors is a requirement which was set out by David Wilson Homes in the leases and TP1 house purchase documents, which all homeowners receive and sign upon completion. It is Watson who manages parking and sub-contracts the patrolling of the site to Bay Sentry. All correspondence should therefore be directed to Watson in the first place.
Five Pod Point electrical charging units have been installed at Orange House car park, servicing ten Resident Parking Spaces. The requirement for these charging points has been issued recently by York Council, and DWH has been able to fully comply by positioning them at Orange House for Orange House residents only. The points are not available to other residents on the development. Although we have taken DWH to task on this, there is little we can do as it is in keeping with the planning agreement.
The Visitor spaces at Orange House can be used by visitors the same as elsewhere on the development by following the rules on the parking signs.
CWRA Committee and assistance
We are looking for more assistance on the Committee, and also looking for residents who would like to help improve the Chocolate Works. If you are interested please email us at chair@cwra.co.uk.