Council progresses Bishop’s Waltham depot redevelopment
A new development of small business units could be in the pipeline for the former depot site at Bishop’s Waltham, according to proposals agreed at a recent Winchester City Council Cabinet meeting.
Councillors at the meeting on Monday 13 November agreed to develop the site which is already owned by the Council but is currently vacant apart from a single derelict building. Members of Cabinet asked for further studies to assess the commercial viability of the site before a final decision is made.
The depot covers 0.95 acres and is situated in a former quarry off Lower Lane in Bishop’s Waltham. In the past it has been used as a base to store refuse freighters serving local parishes, but the site has remained vacant in recent years. The plot has previously been considered for a number of development options, including a new fire station and housing but neither was considered suitable.
Cabinet agreed that building new business units would make best use of the site as well as help local businesses to find suitable workspace in the district. It would also support Winchester’s aspiration to become a premier business hub.
Portfolio Holder for business Cllr Rob Humby, speaking at the meeting in Whiteley on Monday said:
It’s a pleasure to see this type of development progressing in our market towns. This cabinet is dedicated to a full district agenda – that’s why we are in Whiteley today. I am delighted that this is happening as it’s supporting the local economy and demonstrates that business accommodation can be well placed outside the city centre.
The Council is expected to make a final decision on the future of the site in early 2018.