Chocolate Works Residents’ Association
Newsletter, December 2025
As we approach both Christmas and Hanukkah I thought it was time to update you on the work of the CWRA and other issues. Let us start with some advertising!
Events
In the last newsletter, I stated that a Christmas piano recital would be held on 19 December 2025 but since then, there has been a date change. It will now take place on Friday 12 December from 18.30 in St Chad’s Church Hall. The performers are mainly piano students from the Chocolate Works estate. The children have been practising hard so please come and support them.
In addition, between 5pm and 7pm on Sunday 14 December there will be live music on Bayldon Square. Friends and family are welcome. Mulled wine and hot chocolate will be available. Donations to the CWRA would be very welcome as this is intended to be a fundraiser for the CWRA. If you are attending, please bring your own suitable cup. The musician will be performing two, 30 minute slots but we will keep the event to two hours.
I hope that you will be able to attend either or both events.
Car parking
Following the car parking survey, we are shortly to meet with Watson PM and Bay Sentry to discuss the results of the survey and to discuss the best way that the views of residents can best be respected. We expect to be able to update you early in the New Year.
Bishopthorpe Road Boundary
We continue to work on the consultation paper for the four potential options relating to the Bishopthorpe Road boundary. We will be looking to conduct a consultation early in the New Year. It is important that we consult on this issue but we also need to ensure that the information made available to residents and property owners is accurate.
Website
The vice-Chair has been leading on this issue. Again, it looks like this be introduced early in the New Year. The new website is intended to be a one-stop place for all residents and property owners to obtain all relevant information regarding the estate, the CWRA and Watson PM.
Roofs
It is good to see that the repairs to the roofs on Cocoa, Hallmark and Neapolitan House appear to have been completed. Let us hope that this permanently resolves the problems.
The estate
You will recall that planning enforcement from City of York Council (CYC) advised David Wilson Homes (DWH) that they needed to replace and repair the failed landscape. Watson PM asked Aspects for a price and this was passed to DWH but they have not taken any action. When we meet with Watson shortly, we will ask them about their planned next steps. It may be that we will have to go back to CYC and see what actions they are able to take.
New Years Eve party
The Knavesmire pub will be holding a New Years Eve party. Tickets are priced at £10, which includes a welcome glass of fizz, canapés and two rooms of music from local DJs from 8pm until 1am. Tickets can be found at https://bit.ly/3JLeROZ
And Finally
Finally, for those who celebrate, Happy Christmas or Happy Hanukkah! Everyone enjoy the holiday season.