Plans to build 200 new homes at St James' Hospital in Portsmouth to be unveiled to public

Mixed-tenure developer Vistry Group plans to transform the Former Harbour School site at St James’ Hospital into a residential area with 58 new homes, public open space, a play area, and supporting infrastructure.

Owned by Homes England, the site is earmarked for development in both the emerging local plan and the Milton Neighbourhood Plan. Homes England selected Vistry Group as its delivery partner to provide much-needed family housing and affordable homes.

Vistry Group aims to build a residential development featuring tree-lined streets and public open space, enhancing local habitats and providing areas for residents to enjoy nature. The public can view the plans at an exhibition on Friday, July 19, from 3pm to 8.30pm at Milton Village Hall, 182 Milton Road, Southsea PO4 8PR. Project team members will be available to answer questions and gather feedback.

Stephen Clark, head of development at Vistry Southern, said: “We have been working to create a well-designed and well-connected community with a distinctive character that will provide homes to suit a range of families. Feedback is really important to us as we prepare our final proposals. We are keen to hear from the local community and stakeholders, and look forward to sharing our plans with you.”

The group aims to submit a full planning application to Portsmouth City Council later this year. It’s expected the council will make a decision later this year and, if planning permission is granted, work could begin on-site in the spring of 2025. St. James’ Hospital in Portsmouth opened on 30th September 1879, following a decision by Portsmouth Town Council in 1875 to build a lunatic asylum in the town.

Architect George Rake of Portsea designed the hospital in the Byzantine Gothic style, using Fareham Brick and facing the building with Plymouth stone. During the 1980s and 1990s, NHS reforms shifted the approach to mental health treatment towards a “care in the community” system, leading to the closure of many hospitals, including St. James’. Residents can learn more about the proposal at www.vistrystjames.co.uk.