Possible new improved look to West End High Street

10.00.00pm GMT Mon 15th Jan 2007

Artist impression of new building

At the West End, Hedge End and Botley Local Area Committee (HEWEB LAC) this evening outline plans were approved for the construction of 3 storey development with 4 ground floor retail units and 7 residential flats on 1st and 2nd floor following demolition of existing building which currently consists of the Ted Keogh's jewellers and watch repair shop, barbers and the bakers. After more local residents spoke in favour of the plans than spoke against.

View from Upper New Road junction along the High Street

The plans were brought forward by Mr & Mrs Richmond from the barbers shop and Mr Richmond confirmed he will be using one of the retail units to continue his business. The plans approved were outline ones only which means at this stage only the siting and access issues have actually been approved. Detailed plans will now be submitted to confirm the exact look and detail of the new building.

Proposed front elevation of what the new building may look like

The aim is to improve the look of the High Street and the quality of the shops in it. All the HEWEB councillors thought the outline plans were of a good standard and we had no problem in passing this excellent proposal. It is hoped the detailed plans should follow quickly and that the proposed improvements can then take place if the details are ok.

The devil will be in the detail, as with most planning applications; however as part of the outline process the applicant has to submit some views as to the sort of building that is proposed. These views are shown here and commenting on the outline plan local councillor David Goodall said :-

"This idea is a much welcome improvement to the village centre and will help to revitalise the High Street, as well as increasing the number of people living on the High Street itself, which should help with community safety."

For more detailed view of the outline plans visit Eastleigh Borough Council's online planning portal a link to which can be found at the bottom of the page.

Related Link:

Online plans - F/06/58582 48 to 50 High Street, West End.