Winchester City Council has sought feedback from the local community on potential future uses of the Bar End Depot site.
As part of a wider engagement process, the Depot site was left vacant and plans were originally approved by Cabinet in October 2020 but were put on hold by the Covid-19 pandemic. Following a marketing strategy in the summer of this year, a list of nearly 50 expressions of interest was drawn up. This list will now be evaluated with regard to the economic, social and financial benefits they can bring to the area.
During the engagement, the community will have the opportunity to meet the team members behind the delivery of the project, as well as having the opportunity to view potential uses for the site. This includes:
- Retail outlets, including convenience stores or other outlets
- Different types of homes, including retirement or senior living accommodation
- Light industrial and other work equipment
- Healthcare provision (this would be private but for NHS patients)
- Mixed use
Leader and Cabinet Member for Asset Management at Winchester City Council, Cllr Martin Tod, said:
“We have had a very strong response from a wide range of partners outlining potential uses for the Depot site. Now we want to hear from local people about the different options so that we can present their views on the next phase of the project. We prefer to hear from people who live or work in Highcliffe, but everyone is welcome to come along and find out more.”
Once the engagement is complete, the council will make a decision on a specific type of use. This will, hopefully, lead to the council taking the planning application within a year to a year and a half of a preferred bidder being selected.