Regeneration of Central Winchester Reaches Critical Milestone

Published on 19 July 2018

The regeneration of Central Winchester has reached a critical milestone, as the Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) developed by architects and masterplanners JTP has been formally adopted by Winchester City Council. This document sets out the vision, detailed objectives and a Planning & Urban Design Framework to guide the phased delivery of a vibrant new mixed-use hub in the heart of historic Winchester.

The adoption of the SPD follows an extensive engagement process over the last 18 months, in which JTP engaged over 1,500 members of the local community, businesses, stakeholders, students and visitors through a series of events which helped shape the proposals. These events included a Community Planning Weekend, regular meetings, workshops, exhibitions and roadshows.

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There has been huge interest and involvement in this project, and we have had the responsibility of ensuring the regeneration aligns with the spirit and aspirations of the community. During one of the most extensive community planning processes we have ever been involved in, the proposals have been genuinely shaped at every stage by those who will go on to use them, and we are delighted that the resulting SPD will go on to activate the regeneration of Winchester.

Marcus Adams, JTP’s Managing Partner and project lead

The Planning & Urban Design Framework within the SPD outlines the possible uses as well as an urban design and public realm strategy across the 4.5 ha site. The mixed-use quarter will include retail, commercial, cultural, housing and community uses, to complement the city centre and serve the whole community. The buildings, streets and places will be designed and laid out with a Winchester character and scale – described as “Winchesterness” – and will include a range of active and restful spaces in the heart of the city.

The proposals also include the opening up of the brook to the east of the site and a new bus hub. Bus routing away from The Broadway and High Street will allow for environmental improvements to accommodate markets and other street based activities.

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I am delighted that Winchester City Council has been able to deliver this significant document that will guide the regeneration of this important part of our City centre. We couldn’t have done it without the input from everyone who took the time to come and see us and our consultant team, led by JTP, at the events around the District and who shared their views in person, online and in writing throughout this project.

Cllr Caroline Horrill, Winchester City Council Leader

Winchester City Council will now go on to work with a variety of stakeholders to bring the vision for Winchester forward in phases. Alongside that, they will also ensure that a wide range of short and medium term opportunities are taken for the area continues to thrive.

This strategy includes improving the overall look and feel of the public realm, including the Broadway; working with Winchester School of Art to incorporate artwork on the site; refurbishing the Antiques Market to meet the needs of the anticipated new arts-based tenant, and creating opportunities for local businesses to use the vacant office and retail spaces until they are redeveloped.

Related Projects

Community
Planning

Central Winchester Regeneration, Winchester, UK

Regional City & Town Strategy
Stage: Strategic Guidance