Plans set to transform park in Gosport town centre

Gosport Borough Council is seeking people’s opinions for its outline design for the Falklands Gardens in the town centre.

The proposals form part of the council’s plans to develop the waterfront and town centre of Gosport with a new bus station.

Council leader Mark Hook said: ‘Transforming Falklands Gardens is the first phase of the development.

‘We want to make sure we can do the development on the garden first before we move on to the bus station.

‘We want the gardens to have a mix so they can be used by people wanting some quiet time, but can also host events and be inviting for families.

‘There will still be seating, but we also want a play area.’

The design plans put forward by the council include a coastal garden which will be a dedicated quiet area, ripple mounding to create curved seating for small events and attractions and a timber deck with a sculpture display.

They also include water jet fountains, timber play areas and feature walls with seating.

Some people living in the town are opposed to the play areas. They say the gardens should be somewhere to reflect and watch the harbour.

Linda Smart, from Melville Road, said: ‘I wouldn’t want to see a play area there. I don’t think people will be able to enjoy the garden as much. It is fine the way it is.

‘The council needs to concentrate on the bus station, not Falklands Gardens.’

Fellow resident Mike Morris added: ‘The best thing about the gardens is they are quiet and not very busy, so you can enjoy them.’

But Cllr Hook said the area should be vibrant and full of families.

It is proposed that the promenade, Millennium walkway, the Falkland mosaic and memorial stones will be retained. The taxi rank and cycle storage areas will be improved with no reduction in spaces.

To comment on the plans, e-mail [email protected].