Gosport development '˜will secure the long term viability' of precinct

As reported by The News, Zionstone submitted a planning application to Gosport Borough Council to change the use of 10 three-bedroom flats at Carisbrooke Road shopping precinct into 27 one-bedroom flats and one two-bedroom flat, as well as building two three-bedroom houses.

Cllr Stephen Philpott, ward councillor for Peel Common, said he has had 56 residents write to him against the application.

But Lauren Atkins, managing director of Zionstone, says it will improve the area.

Ms Atkins said: ‘Prior to the submission of the planning application, which seeks the complete refurbishment and modernisation of the Carisbrooke Centre, we underwent an extensive pre-application process with the Local Planning Authority which lasted around six months. Numerous revisions were made resulting in a positive formal pre-application response.

‘Myself and my team have spent significant time at the Carisbrooke Centre, meeting with local residents and business, with the general feedback being very positive.

‘It was agreed the current shopping precinct is in desperate need of a facelift and that the proposed plans will bring about comprehensive improvements.

‘Our main goal is to secure the long-term viability of the Carisbrooke Centre and we will continue to work alongside the business owner and local residents to ensure that this is the case.’