More plans for 160 homes, shops and leisure space revealed for former Debenhams in Portsmouth

The proposed re-development, which will be renamed Handleys' Corner to mark the site's former life as a Victorian department store, could also include underground parking and a gym.

Shaun Adams, chief executive of developers National Regional Property Group, thanked residents for coming along to the exhibition event as well as a previous consultation in January. 'It was really important to have two consultations,' he said.

'We weren't quite sure what direction we were going in at that point. But today we've had really positive feedback.

'We already have a range of parties interested in occupying the retail and community spaces.'

It is planned the ground floor of Debenhams, in Palmerston Road, would be converted into a mix of retail, leisure and community space with its other floors and an additional two storeys used to create a total of around 90 homes.

The centre of the building above the ground floor would be removed to create a horseshoe effect and the Victorian back building, including a post Second World War nuclear bunker, would be demolished for a new seperate development of 50 affordable homes.

Southsea resident Marian Wendon, 81, attended the information event. She said: 'They have actually listened to what we said at the original consultation. I stressed the need for more retail outlets because we need to increase footfall around here to help other shops.

'Sometimes you walk around here and it's dead.

'And we do also need housing in Portsmouth.'

Peter Warlow, 64, also from Southsea, added: 'Keeping the existing Debenhams building is a good starting point because it's a building of some quality and history.

'I think the big question mark is whether retail will do well, but I will be interested to see how it does in conjunction with Knight and Lee across the road. It's a shame to lose two retail anchors like that but it could be a major opportunity for the area.'

Plans will be finalised this month based on feedback from the event before being submitted to Portsmouth City Council in April.

It is hoped work will begin at the end of 2020 if permission is granted.