"Major milestone" reached in the bid to rejuvenate Waterlooville with a new ‘masterplan’
A major milestone has been reached in the bid to rejuvenate Waterlooville’s town centre with a new ‘masterplan’ for the area now agreed.
The Masterplan was adopted at last night’s (December 17) meeting of Havant Borough Council provides a clear framework for future the development, investment, and public realm improvements in the long-term regeneration and future of the town centre.
As a Supplementary Planning Document, it will now be a key material consideration in planning decisions and help guide development that reflects the ambitions and needs of the local community, the council said.
It follows extensive engagement with residents, businesses, community groups, visitors, and a wide range of stakeholders, whose views and ideas have shaped the vision and aspirations.
Among the key priorities include:
- Improving links between the traditional town centre and Wellington Park Retail Park
- Prioritises development on previously developed land, including redundant, derelict or underused land and buildings within the urban area
- Making improvements to the London Road public areas as better play areas across the town
- Improved car and cycle parking
- Encouraging a sustainable mix of uses for businesses and community facilities across the town
The new guidance comes amid recent improvements in the town centre, with Wellington Way receiving major renovation to create new shop units and homes, with several businesses also securing council money to help start up in the town centre.
The owners of Dukes Walk has also introduced three hours of free parking, with the council introducing 30 minutes of free parking in the town centre carpark to encourage better footfall.
Councillor Antonia Harrison, Cabinet Lead for Community Assets, the Local Plan and Waterlooville Town Centre Regeneration said: “This is a proud moment for Waterlooville and for everyone who has taken part.
“The Masterplan reflects the voices of our community, drawing directly from the insights shared by residents, local businesses and stakeholders throughout a thorough engagement programme.
"Thank you to all who contributed, your involvement has helped shape a vision that truly belongs to Waterlooville and will guide positive change for years to come.”
Following adoption, Havant Borough Council will now move forward with wider implementation activity, partnership working, and opportunities to attract investment to bring key projects identified in the Masterplan to life.
To help explain what a Masterplan SPD is, and what adoption means for the town, Cllr Harrison has recorded a short video which is embedded in this story or you can read the document at www.havant.gov.uk/waterlooville.