Strategic placemaking consultant appointed to support regeneration in Winchester
Winchester City Council has appointed property advisors JLL, supported by Arup, as its strategic placemaking consultant to support the implementation of its regeneration projects.
The Station Approach scheme is an office-led development, adjacent to Winchester railway station, comprising 140,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, which will also include restaurants, retail space and improved public realm. More than 20 interested parties attended an event for potential investors and developers in June. An outline planning application has been developed and Winchester City Council is considering delivery options for the site.
JLL and Arup will also support the delivery of the Central Winchester regeneration project, which aims to create a new retail, residential and cultural heart in the city centre, set within an enhanced public realm.
The new Winchester Sport & Leisure Park is currently under construction, along with an extensive building programme to build 1,000 homes across the district.
The authority is also working with Hampshire County Council on a jointly-funded Movement Strategy for the city. High environmental credentials will be required for all regeneration work as the council has joined the growing number of local authorities to declare a climate emergency.
Chas Bradfield, Strategic Director – Place, at Winchester City Council, said:
“JLL and Arup will help us deliver our ambitions for the city as it evolves and grows.
“We are committed to creating a sustainable destination for visitors and businesses, while protecting our environment and enhancing the quality of life for our residents. We have made significant progress this year with the completion of our Chesil Lodge extra-care development, the start of works on site for our new sport and leisure centre, and the interest already attracted toward our proposals for Station Approach.”
David Roberts, Development Consulting Director based in JLL’s Bristol office, added:
“We are hugely excited to be taking on this work with Winchester City Council, which has significant ambition and a strong vision for the future. City centres across the country are evolving rapidly, thanks to changes in technology, shopping and leisure habits. Together we will develop plans to ensure Winchester continues to build on its considerable strengths as a fantastic place to live, work and spend leisure time.”
Michael Spoor, Associate Director and Arup Winchester consulting leader, said:
“Winchester City Council’s projects and place strategy seeks to respond to changes in what we all need from our city centres, whether we work, live or play in them, and we are pleased to support the city. Arup’s team is based in the heart of Winchester and this will offer our local knowledge alongside our international experience to deliver what is required for the city, its residents and visitors.”