Havant Borough Council has appointed a consultant to guide the future development of Waterlooville Town Centre.
The contractor, Feria Urbanism, will produce a masterplan that will act as a guide for future regeneration and will be used to attract investors, apply for government funding and improve the town centre precinct and its surrounding areas.
The masterplan will provide a vision and a plan that will identify key areas of growth, future development and improving the local economy within a natural environment. As well as being an important document for planning purposes.
Taking into consideration the evolving new ways of working, shopping habits, and leisure time, the plan will also reflect active travel habits, public transport, and access to the town centre from across the borough and county.
Councillor Alex Rennie, Leader of Havant Borough Council, said; ”We are extremely pleased to announce this important step for the future of Waterlooville town centre. The masterplan will establish a shared understanding of the most important strengths of the area, along with the opportunities.
“Together we will be working with those who use the town centre to shape the masterplan. The development of opportunities is not an overnight job and will take a significant investment in time, expertise, patience and money – but we are taking the important first steps."
Richard Eastham from Feria Urbanism, added: “We are delighted to be appointed for this exciting commission in Waterlooville. We look forward to working with local people as we explore the richness of the town’s heritage. We want to combine local experiences with our knowledge of high street regeneration to build a town centre fit for future generations.”
Havant Borough Council is dedicated to ensuring local voices are heard throughout the process of the masterplan and will be providing more information on how people can get involved in the near future.
The aim is to deliver a comprehensive masterplan document by March 2024.