Public access and nature shown to be priorities in consultation on plans for Winchester legacy land
A consultation surrounding plans to regenerate a former army base south of Winchester city has shown the majority of respondents citing nature, biodiversity and sports facilities when asked what they would like to see at legacy land at Bushfield camp.
Under a recently submitted outline planning application from the Church Commissioners for England, in partnership with Legal & General and Gisborne, the 43-hectare site at Bushfield camp would blend office, academic and employment space in an innovation park and create hundreds of jobs.
READ MORE: Plans submitted for disused army camp near Winchester city centre
Now, following months of consultation, the developers have collated over 900 survey responses which will influence future proposals.
Under forthcoming plans for the innovation park, over 60 acres will be designated for public use and be known as Winchester’s legacy land.
Half of respondents thought the whole Bushfield site was legally accessible for public use, however, only 45% currently has permissive access.
Despite the misconception, 80% of people wanted to see this space opened up for use by nature and the public alike, and more than three-quarters (79%) said Winchester needed more publicly accessible open spaces.
Nearly three quarters of respondents (72%) called for new accessible routes, pathways and cycleways.
John Weir, head of real estate for The Church Commissioners for England said: "We’re grateful for the breadth and depth of survey responses, which will play a key role in developing our proposals for the future of Bushfield’s legacy land. As custodians for the local area, we’re committed to taking on board the feedback received.
"Enhancing the environment was one of the main topics raised in survey responses. As a result, we will ensure the land is protected and enhanced and we are committed to safeguarding biodiversity.”
"Making sure that Bushfield is safe and fully, legally accessible for everyone to enjoy is clearly a notable priority."
Nearly 75% of respondents said they would like the area to be managed by a recognised specialist group or conservation body such as The Butterfly Conservation or as an educational resource for local schools and colleges
The development team will now take forward the survey results and explore how they can help shape the future proposals and management of the site which can be incorporated into the S106 legal agreement tied to any planning permission granted by Winchester City Council.
Bushfield Camp was used by the army during the Second World War. It was closed in the 1970s.
The camp was first allocated by Winchester City Council as a site for employment-led development back in 2013.
To find out more about Bushfield camp, click HERE.
