Spark:York is at risk of losing its lease at its current Piccadilly spot, with a senior councillor set to consider whether they can keep their current lease until 2022.
The social space has applied for an extension on its lease that will secure the Piccadilly location until 2022, however councillors have said they will only consider if “ongoing issues around planning conditions and noise levels are resolved”.
Speaking of the conflict, Councillor Nigel Ayre, executive member for finance and performance, has said:
“Spark’s original lease was granted because we wanted to explore new ways to regenerate Castle Gateway and support the type of independent business that bring a unique character to York.
“The recommendation reflects the fact that Spark has delivered on much of that promise, but that ongoing issues around noise and cladding are unacceptable and have to be resolved once and for all.
“The report’s recommendations set clear deadlines and standards for Spark’s owners. Only if they are met could we consider allowing Spark to continue to provide a platform for York’s entrepreneurs to create jobs and business for local supply chains while breathing new life into a derelict patch of the city.”
While the council are currently unhappy with current noise levels, the application outlines the successes Spark:York has brought to the city, supporting over 40 start ups and creating 65 jobs since its opening in 2018.
The new conditions recommend that Spark:York will be given a new lease if:
- all current planning conditions are met, including the external cladding and noise control measures.
- Spark:York can obtain an extension of current planning permission
- all rental payments must be up to date prior to signing of the lease
The new lease would also include new clauses such as no amplified live music or DJ sets in the evening.
A decision is set to be made on February 14th, with a new lease beginning July 1st 2020.
