7.2.20

We’re asking local people to get involved in a major plan to transform Gosport town centre.

We’re asking for your views and ideas, as the plan for the High Street and Stoke Road is drawn up.

The plan includes new uses for empty historic buildings, more options for eating out and night-time entertainment, and more community and cultural events.

Its centrepiece is a major revamp of the Old Grammar School, which will be home to a new museum and art gallery – creating a community hub for heritage, arts, education and culture along with a café and shop.

New town centre work spaces for small companies are also proposed, along with a high street training hub for residents looking for a career in customer services or hospitality.

The plan also includes renovation of the canopy of the Royal Arms hotel in Stoke Road, and finding new community uses for the building.

Residents can take part in a short online survey to have their say on issues such as:

• how to celebrate and share Gosport’s rich heritage
• how to improve Gosport’s programme of events and activities
• how to use spaces above shops to benefit the community
• how to improve the market, and whether a new indoor market would work
• what kind of training, cultural and leisure activities would be best in the new-look museum and gallery
• whether empty shops should be used as spaces to help small businesses start up and grow

To have your say, complete our survey  before the closing date of 28 February.

The plan, shortlisted for funding by Historic England, was developed by the council and Hampshire Cultural Trust, which runs Gosport Gallery and SEARCH in the Old Grammar School.

The plan has been agreed in principle by Historic England, as part of their high streets heritage action zones scheme. A final decision on funding is expected soon.

Cllr Mark Hook, Leader of the Council, said: “The actions we’re proposing really would transform Stoke Road and the High Street – bringing new life into the town centre and enhancing our historic buildings.

“It’s important that residents give us their views on the plan – I hope lots of people will respond to the survey and tell us what they think and if they have alternative ideas.”

Source: Gosport Borough Council