The Roman Quarter

It will create a new destination for business and leisure with 153 apartments, an 88 key hotel, Grade A office and a world class roman visitor attraction, Eboracum. The accredited museum, whose name derives from the Celtic name for York, will deliver an experiential, interactive and educational archaeology experience; the first of its kind in the UK.

The Roman Quarter, adjacent to the former Roman river crossing, will commence with a two-year archaeological dig prior to construction. York Archaeological Trust’s programme of opportunities will encourage the local community to participate in educational digs and curriculum-based activities. Their work on site is set to generate new scientific research to further inform on Medieval and Roman Life and the origins of this historic city.

Divided into two distinct buildings, the scheme seeks to counteract the negative characteristics inherent within the area (Utilitarian, Monolithic & Inactive) by creating a pair of fluid building shaped by light and views. The physical break in the building abolishes the existing oppressive nature along the street, establishes a visual porosity over the site and improves daylight to the surrounding environment.

Central to the development is a triple height atrium filled with trees and a 3-storey living wall, which creates a statement entrance for the attraction.

The proposals submitted by Vincent & Partners, created in collaboration with heritage and townscape specialists Montagu Evans and Reform Landscape Architects, provide a unique opportunity to regenerate public realm around the site. The creation of a vibrant new corridor through Tanner Street, formally a Roman road, to connect with the newly pedestrianised Tanners Moat, will result in a new, attractive, usable space.

As local architects, we are extremely privileged to play an intrinsic part in such an exciting and pivotal opportunity for the City, that will boost York’s economic recovery, post Covid-19. The project is predicted to bring major investment of more than £20 million per annum to York’s economy and boost tourism by over 500,000 visitors each year. This true mixed-use development will deliver educational benefits through a world class heritage attraction and create an estimated 600 new jobs for the local community.

Vincent & Partners worked in collaboration with York City Council’s conservation team submitting proposals for planning consent in January 2022. The scheme continues to gain traction among key stakeholders with excitement building in the local community for what promises to be an iconic development in the heart of the city.