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Derelict brewery could finally get revamped under £20m scheme
A MAJOR step forward has been made in the regeneration of an historic brewery site.
For five years the Gales Brewery in Horndean has been empty after the firm was taken over by London-based firm Fuller's.
But after several rounds of public consultation, developers have finally submitted formal plans for a 20m revamp of the site.
The final proposals, currently being considered by East Hampshire District Council, would see 73 new homes, comprising a mixture of private and affordable properties.
There would also be a building to house a doctors' surgery, a new 60-bed residential home for the elderly and a shop.
The village's iconic tower would be retained, as well as some of the historic buildings along London Road.
Horndean MP George Hollingbery said: 'In a nutshell, this is re-energising the centre of the community.
'It's a large derelict site doing nothing.
'It's a hollow in the community. To have it filled with something new and with a clear community orientation is something to be welcomed.'
Tony Burton, managing director of Burton Property, which has led on the scheme to date, said: 'After many months of hard work involving much discussion and consultation with the local community and the council, we are extremely pleased to have finalised our proposals for this important site, which forms an intrinsic part of Horndean.
'We firmly believe that the proposals now lodged with the council offer the best and most appropriate form of development for the site.'
Gerard Price, managing director of Bargate Homes, which is developing the new homes, said: 'The submission of the formal planning application marks the next important step in bringing this site, which is at the heart of Horndean, back into positive use.'
Tim Coleman, acquisitions manager of Fuller's, said: 'Fuller's looks forward to following the progress of the application over the next few months and is hopeful that these proposals will lead to the site's return as a focal point at the heart of Horndean.'
Councillors will vote on the application at a planning meeting of East Hampshire council.
A final decision on the proposals is expected before the end of the year.
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Friday 10 February 2012
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