Initially, it had to compete with the existing graveyards, but, because of their unsatisfactory condition, these were all closed by an Order in Council in December 1854.

The process was completed in 1979, by which date there was nothing of commercial value left, other than the land containing over 28,000 graves, 17,000 monuments and two listed buildings in an advanced state of disrepair.

This stimulated a group of local people to take action, which led to the formation of York Cemetery Trust, a registered charity.

In February 1987, the Crown Commissioners sold the freehold of the cemetery to the Trust for a nominal sum, giving the Trust responsibility for continuing the burial business, using the site for educational purposes, and restoring the chapel and gatehouse.

A small staff of permanent employees, assisted by volunteers, now help maintain and develop the site as a heritage and environmental asset, while also allowing it to continue its original purpose as a burial place.