Network Rail has lodged a planning application with City of York Council for a new Wilton Rise pedestrian and cycle bridge, intended to improve links between the existing Holgate community and the growing York Central neighbourhood.

Working with Homes England and York Central Limited (comprising McLaren Property and Arlington Real Estate), the scheme would replace the Victorian stepped bridge to create an inclusive, fully step-free route for residents and visitors.

Extensive local engagement has shaped the proposal. The current bridge cannot be used by wheelchair users, cyclists or families with prams, so providing step-free access has been a core objective. Discussions with residents, accessibility groups and the council have directly influenced the final layout, including the bridge’s alignment, heights and gradient to support safe access for all.

The design is intended to connect into future community spaces and neighbourhoods at York Central, protect key sightlines across the city — notably towards York Minster — and ensure the railway can continue to operate safely throughout.

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Delivering the Wilton Rise Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge forms a key element of the enabling infrastructure for York Central, preparing the site for regeneration led by York Central Limited.

York Central is one of the largest city-centre brownfield regeneration projects in England, covering 45 hectares of land that has been primarily rail use for more than 150 years. The programme will turn underused railway land into a new residential district and high-quality commercial quarter with cultural and community facilities.

This regeneration is expected to power York's economy into the future, providing much-needed homes and driving economic growth by 20%.

Stephen Hind, Network Rail, New Business Director said: "The Wilton Rise pedestrian and cycle bridge is more than just infrastructure – it is a symbol of York Central’s commitment to inclusive design, sustainable transport, and placemaking. By replacing a Victorian bridge with a step-free connection, we are opening up York Central to everyone."

Tom Gilman, Managing Director, McLaren Regeneration added: “Wilton Rise footbridge forms a crucial part of York Central's infrastructure and it's great to see Network Rail bringing this new and much-improved pedestrian and cycle route forward. Ensuring York Central is an accessible and inclusive place continues to be a key driver of the work we're undertaking in our role as developer and this application represents yet another great milestone in the wider partnership's ambition to create a world-class city quarter for the people of York."