Dear Resident,
I wanted to write to you with an update about the former Southdowns Bus Depot at the end of Military Road.
Following my last letter regarding this building, I finally met with representatives from First Wessex last week and have discussed their proposals for the site, which they wish to submit to the Council.
As I suspected the development would be considerable. Indeed First Wessex believes that this site will accommodate up to 60 flats, plus two doctors surgeries and a standalone pharmacy. These flats would be a mixture of socially rented and private flats.
The building itself is considerably taller than the old bus depot, but has a smaller footprint and is arranged in a ‘T’ formation with an art deco design. Interestingly I am told by First Wessex that it will not be visible from either Rampart Gardens, or more generally to the west of the site, because it will be hidden by the embankment and tree canopy on the border of the site. First Wessex has also included in the design more than 60 parking spaces and a small children’s play area.
It is clear that First Wessex have thought about the development and its impact on the area. This is not to say that I do have serious concerns, or reservations. I would like to know more detail about the mixture of flats, if there is room to reduce the size of the development, how the lines will be treated, could they increase the number of parking spaces and how will First Wessex address the flooding issue.
I also believe it is vital that you and your neighbours have an opportunity to have your say prior to any plans being submitted to the Council, which was I why I have lobbied for and been successful in getting First Wessex to agree to hold an exhibition of their plans.
Hopefully you will have already received a flyer from First Wessex inviting you to the exhibition, but just in case you have not, it will be is next week, Monday 29th Octobers at the Blue Lagoon, next to Hilsea Lido between the hours of 11am and 7pm.
The purpose of the exhibition is to provide an opportunity for you to view their proposals, to make comments and give feedback, to First Wessex. I do hope that you will be able to attend, but if you cannot please do not hesitate to contact me and I will pass on your comments.
Yours sincerely,
Alistair Thompson
