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Gosport News
Gosport Council plans a vision for the future for its Waterfront
16/02/2010
A major study aimed at developing a Masterplan vision for the Gosport Waterfront has been launched, following the appointment by Gosport Borough Council, of Consultants Colin Buchanan & Partners.
With funding for the study coming from the Partnership for Urban South Hampshire (PUSH), the Council hopes to involve as many residents, businesses and visitors as possible, to develop a vision for the area, which stretches from the historic Royal Clarence Yard at one end, to Haslar Marina at the other, and includes the High Street shopping area.
This ambitious plan is aimed at creating a new vibrant and dynamic waterfront to ‘complement’ rather than ‘rival’ developments across the water at Gunwharf.
‘It is about shaping the Gosport of the future, for residents, businesses and visitors, changing both the perception and image of the area,’ said Cllr Mark Hook, Leader of the Council.
‘Gosport has more accessible waterfront than our colleagues across the harbour and we have a great opportunity to create an attractive environment in which to encourage new business, shops and visitor attractions to come to.’
Two workshops were held this week, aimed at getting key agencies and local businesses, to have an input and put their suggestions forward. Work will continue over the next few months, culminating in the production of a Masterplan by June this year.
“We want to encourage as many residents as possible to take part in helping shape the Waterfront, and they will have the opportunity to do just that on the 8th and 9th March, when a ‘Meet the Consultant and have your say’ event takes place at Gosport Discovery Centre.” said Director of Planning & Economic Development Services, Damien Wilson. ‘Anyone wishing to take part and have their say can just pop along during opening hours and make their views known.’
Making it clear that this was democracy at work for the benefit of all, Councillor Hook added; ‘This is not about imposing an idea on the community, but of listening to what people have to say and then seeing how we can make that vision come true. There have been, for example, suggestions that this might include the Falkland Gardens. I am very clear in that the gardens will stay as public open space, as they have always been, but I am happy to hear suggestions on how the public feel the area can be improved.”
The "Meet the Consultant" event takes place between 1-7 pm on 8th March and 9-7pm on 9th March.