A Solution Without A Problem
- No clear demand: Evidence suggests commercial space in Winchester is already oversupplied, with empty premises in the city centre and limited tenant demand.
- Fails planning policy (WT3): Proposals don’t demonstrate clear local benefit, may compete with the town centre, and don’t meet the Local Plan requirements for appropriate, necessary development.
- Poor location for students: Site is remote from the university and city centre, raising safety concerns (late-night travel via Badger Farm / isolated paths) and putting pressure on local services like GP surgeries.
- Better alternatives exist: More suitable sites (especially city centre locations) are available for student accommodation and business use.
The site should never have been included in the Local Plan in the first place. The developers promise 2,500 jobs, in an area with virtually no unemployment, and say nothing about the 1,000 or so extra houses that will require.
Local resident
