The Trust is unable to support this application due to insufficient evidence being provided for surviving archaeological remains. 

The proposed site of the development is within the boundaries of the Cold War-era United States Air Force [USAF] camp that was in use between 1952 and 1958. The area of proposed development is not listed. There is however potential for archaeological data to be recovered which may help our understanding of the site. 

The nearby airfield and associated USAF camp are of unique significance. The airfield was the largest in the north of England during the period of USAF involvement, and is an important site in understanding the early history of the Cold War and its effect on the region. In recent years, this type of military heritage has taken on greater importance and been led by Wayne Cocroft and John Schofield on behalf of Historic England. York holds a major contribution to this understanding through the preservation of the Cold War Bunker, but sites like the disused MOD camp site on Wheldrake Lane also offer potential important contributions. 

The proposed scheme would directly impact on archaeological remains of three structures, namely a bunker, blast shelter and a third building of unknown use.

Since there appears to be little historical recording of the site, the archaeological record is of increased value. The site should therefore be given a full conservation assessment, including photographic recording and condition survey, and to be carried out prior to any decision on the application being made.