New designs for seven-storey park and ride in Portsmouth revealed

Members of the public had a first look at proposals, which would create an extra 2,000 parking spaces, during a two-day consultation event this week.

If approved, the multi-storey structure would replace the existing car park in Tipner East in Portsmouth and include trees, plants, solar panels and electric car charging points.

Waltham Chase resident, Isobel Morrison, 26, had a chance to see the plans during a consultation event at the park and ride terminal.

She said: 'I use it quite regularly but only to get to Gunwharf. It would be nice if it could go to other places like Southsea.

'Car parks in the city are far too expensive.'

Her friend Sarah Little, 35, from Bishop's Waltham agreed. 'I think this is a good idea,' she said.

'I don't like to drive in Portsmouth. It would encourage people to go more places in the city.'

Two services currently operate from the park and ride - one to the Hard Interchange and one to the University of Portsmouth.

With the expansion there is scope for services to run to other areas of the city.

Tim Deaton, 70, from Romsey said: 'It seems to be a good idea. It's going to be one hell of a building.

'I volunteer at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. I have tried parking in places nearby but it's really difficult. The park and ride is definitely the best option for me.

'When I talk to the visitors I tell them to use the park and ride, it's so much easier.

'Having more buses going into different areas in Portsmouth is a great idea. It would be good to have a bus going to the D-Day Story for visitors to use, especially when the landing craft tank is installed there.'

A total of £500,000 has been approved by Portsmouth City Council to create a business case for the new park and ride. However, it is not known yet how much the development could cost.

It currently has 650 spaces.