Winchester City Council commissioned a 'Development Assessment' from planning and urban design specialists Tibbalds to look at the potential of the Winchester Station approach. Hampshire County Council also helped to fund the study.
The report, which will be considered by the City Council's Cabinet in December, reveals how appropriate development could improve a major gateway into Winchester from Andover Road, increase employment in the city and maintain parking for rail users.
Cllr Keith Wood, the Leader of Winchester City Council, said: "Improvements to the Railway Station approach, the Carfax site and Andover Road area are something that many have asked for and want to see. The City Council agrees that it is a good idea and is working towards an overall masterplan for the area. This will, if accepted by Council in due course, form part of our local plan."
Steve Brine said: "Like Silver Hill this area of the city centre needs attention as it's tired and falling way behind its potential at present. So long as the city remains confident they can take on this major project alongside everything else currently on its plate, it should press ahead.
"My two tests for any change in the area are to insist it is sympathetic to the high design standards we expect in Winchester and build on the strong local economy we are building."
Stakeholders including Network Rail, South West Trains, the BID and the City of Winchester Trust have contributed to the development assessment. Local residents will be consulted as proposals take shape.
In particular the project aims to:
1) Ensure the area around the station enhances the economic and cultural vitality of the city, offering improved employment opportunities
2) Create a high-quality and welcoming arrival point, helping people to find their way to the city centre and improving pedestrian and cycle routes
3) Improve the aesthetic and environmental impact of the area, retaining trees and landscape features and enhancing public spaces, views and character
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