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 the estate 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.”

Detailed plans have now been submitted to York City Council for the conversion of the estate’s historic buildings to residential and the protection and enhancement of the grounds and landscape.

The application follows detailed discussions between the preferred developers, the PJ Livesey Group, and Historic England, heritage officers and planning officials together with wide consultations with the general public.

The plans would see the listed buildings converted to create 84 residential properties and there would also be a small number of new build homes, including a new gate house.

The Recreation Hall would be retained and restored as a multi-use space.

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 the estate 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.”