Spark York’s plan to stay put for another five years has divided opinion among residents.
YorkMix revealed earlier this month that the temporary box park had applied for permission to stay on site for an additional five years, to 30 September 2030.
And it wants to be able to stage up to six live amplified music events per calendar year.
That has infuriated some neighbours. They say the noise and smells from Spark, which is home to street food vendors, bars, shops, businesses and community events, are intolerable.
One objection to the planning application comes from a couple who say they bought their home “on the promise from the developer that the eyesore of Sparks only had planning until 2020”.
They add: “We have complained directly to Spark’s about the level of noise, the obnoxious smells and the ever present smuts of soot entering our open windows.
“Sparks have tried to control the noise but eventually the level creeps up. The extraction of clouds of smoke has improved but it is still a health hazard.”
In conclusion, they write: “If any member of the Council lived in the vicinity Sparks would be long gone.
“I know I am wasting my time objecting and I probably won’t live to see the back of the monstrosity which is Sparks.”
This is what another neighbour says about the noise levels: “Spark’s claim that there have been no complaints for five years is incorrect. A ‘final warning’ for noise was already issued in 2021, and numerous noise complaints, as well as complaints concerning stench and smoke, along with irrefutable video/audio evidence, were submitted to Planning Enforcement.
“No need for action was recognised.
“It has therefore become apparent that complaints to the council are more or less pointless and in vain.”
The Guildhall Planning Panel has also objected. It says Spark “has been proved to be harmful to the living conditions of nearby residents with noise, odours and visual impacts.
“The proposal of six live events is insult to injuries. Enough is enough.”
More support
But while there are three objections, eight people have written to support Spark.
One says: “Spark York plays a vital role in both the local community and the city’s economy. It has become a vibrant hub that supports start-ups, provides employment opportunities, and attracts both residents and visitors.”
Another describes it as “enjoyable to visit and thoughtfully considered to ensure a positive impact on the local area”.
A third supporter says Spark is a “superb amenity”: “The alternative is to create a large desolate space in the city centre, remove millions of pounds from the local economy and cut a significant number of jobs – hardly aligned with ambitions for growth.”
And another says: “Seeing the enjoyment people have at Spark, and its place in the local community is wonderful each time I visit.”
North Yorkshire Police were consulted and said an analysis “shows that crime and disorder associated with the site continues to be low”.
The plans will go before councillors at a date to be fixed. You can read and comment on the application here.