New study into potential meanwhile uses of Winchester bus station to start
A study into how an integral part of the Central Winchester Regeneration (CWR) area, which will be known as Saxon Gate, could be used to breathe a new lease of life into the city, ahead of the wider redevelopment, has begun.
Winchester City Council has appointed Carl Turner Architects (CTA) and Winchester-based creative Worthwhile Works, to carry out a feasibility study into the short-term options for the un-used section of the Winchester bus station.
It has been identified as an area that could be used for meanwhile uses before the wider regeneration work of the area begins. The feasibility study is an opportunity to establish what could be done on the site in the short-term, to ensure Saxon Gate is an attractive and vibrant place for people to visit.
Cllr Caroline Brook, Member of the Cabinet (CWR) Committee and Chair of the Meanwhile Uses Advisory Panel, said:
“The exciting project to create meanwhile use of an unused area of the bus station is an integral part in the Saxon Gate project and the feasibility study to ensure any work done on the site is achievable and sustainable, is a key step forward in this project.
“The detailed proposal that Carl Turner Architects (CTA) and Worthwhile Works put forward, met many aspects of our brief and we are looking forward to taking the first steps to investigate what can be done in the bus station location.”
Carl Turner said:
“Winchester is full of rich history and exciting possibilities for the future. Our experience with other similar projects has shown us how important feasibility studies are to the redevelopment process. We are looking forward to exploring the potential of this historical site to ensure any work carried out will benefit everyone.”
Wendy Wyatt, of Worthwhile Works, said:
“As well as incredible heritage, Winchester is full of talent – incredible food producers, a world class art school, a thriving arts scene and an abundance of creative businesses. We want to explore how we can help Winchester’s community to further encourage participation, wellbeing and growth.”
Jolyon Nott, of Worthwhile Works, added:
“We will respect the past and embrace the future. We are confident the feasibility study will identify some exciting opportunities for this important area of the city and we are proud to have been appointed to undertake this work.”