South of Romsey Town Centre - The preferred option
What is Option 1+?
Following presentation of the three options to the Citizens' Assembly in October 2024 and further work and technical studies, Option 1+ was developed as a refined version of Option 1. It aims to maximise parking provision while delivering a high-quality community facility in a central location.
Bus station site
- A new 880sqm community centre (building A)
- 600sqm of commercial space (building B)
- 20 homes (building B)
- A transportation hub (new bus station), bike hub, and public realm improvements
Crosfield Hall site
- A new 285-space decked car park
- 58 EV charging spaces
- 13 disabled parking bays
View of the Community Hub and Holbrook Stream
View of the decked car park from Broadwater Road
View of the decked car park from Paimpol Place
Please note these are indicative concept designs only.
These illustrations are intended to show the scale and location of the buildings only. No design work has been undertaken. This work would begin with community engagement once the preferred option has been selected and the architects have been appointed.
Why option 1+?
The preference of the Citizens' Assembly was to have the community facilities in the town centre - as per options 1 and 2 - with option 2 being marginally ahead.
Option 1+ as a refined and further developed version of option 1, reflects many of the same priorities and features identified as important to the Assembly - most notably utilising a central, accessible location to provide large, flexible community space.
The preferred option:
- Responds directly to community feedback about location and accessibility to the town centre
- Places the community facility centrally, supporting linked trips (where people combine visits to the community centre with shopping, dining or other activities in the town centre). This helps boost footfall and supports local businesses.
- Maximises parking provision to support town centre vitality and helps meet future parking demand
- Crosfield Hall will remain available until the new facility is ready.
- Construction will be phased to minimise disruption.
- Retains key features from the masterplan, including transport and public realm improvements
- Benefits from existing transport links and pedestrian routes, making it easy to access by foot, bike, bus or car.
Considerations going forward
At this stage, we are focusing on setting the location and key principles for the new community facilities. Further work on the detailed design - including how it will look - will come later, and there will be further opportunities for community involvement as the project develops.
During construction we’re committed to keeping Romsey accessible and active, and we’ll be exploring options for temporary parking arrangements while the new car park is built.
We’ll continue to engage with the community and local businesses throughout the process.
Phases
Engagement on next steps
If approved by council, what you would like us to consider as we move into the next stage of designing the new development including the new community facility, decked parking and public spaces? This is an opportunity to share reflections, ideas or concerns.