Station Approach development moves forward
The council’s Station Approach project has been given the green light to move forward.
The Cabinet (Station Approach) Committee received an update on site access, market analysis and delivery at their meeting on 4 October and was satisfied that preparation for a planning application can begin, with a proposed submission date in March 2019.
The development will create much-needed Grade A office space within 130,000 square feet of business accommodation, bringing new commerce and employment opportunities to Winchester, supported by café and small retail units. Over 1,000 jobs could be accommodated on the site and the scheme has the support of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce as well as Winchester BID.
It will also involve transforming the area outside of the station, offering improved options for pedestrian, cyclist and public transport users, making moving around and living in the area a more desirable and pleasant experience.
The rejuvenation of Station Hill and Station Road is set to progress. Key stakeholders will be invited to share their vision for the outdoor spaces at a series of workshops next month, with a full public consultation following early next year.
Councillor Steve Miller, Chair of the Cabinet (Station Approach) Committee said:
“We know that there is a shortage of high-quality office space in Winchester and that businesses wishing to move to the area are currently unable to. The business community has expressed its interest in the location and we are therefore keen to move the project forward to enable us to welcome these businesses sooner rather than later.”
Mark Baulch, Head of Policy and Representation at the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, said:
“Hampshire Chamber of Commerce would like to highlight the continuing need for Grade A office space in Winchester, as well as the continued lack of supply. Several of our members have expressed specific interest in better office space in the city, especially close to public transport services. One of these businesses has subsequently had to move out of the city”.
The council has also listened to residents’ feedback and confirmed that the much-loved registry office will remain and become a focal point of the project. Uses for the building are yet to be decided, but could include a bar/restaurant use, helping to create a vibrant and active hub in a highly sustainable location adjacent to the station.
The full cabinet report can be found using this link: