Ambitious plans to breathe new life into Gosport's historic waterfront are moving forward.
Proposals for detailed technical designs, forming the first phase of a wider regeneration roadmap for the town's 4.4km waterfront, were approved by the Economic Regeneration & Skills Board on July 16.
The improvements form part of the Historic Gosport Waterfront Public Realm Masterplan, a long-term vision to enhance the waterfront stretching from the former Haslar Hospital and Submarine Museum in the south to Hardway in the north.
The first phase of the project will focus on improving the waterfront's public realm through upgrades to streets, walkways and open spaces. The scheme is estimated to cost £5.88 million, although Gosport Borough Council has identified a funding gap of £490,000.
Approval of the technical design work marks the beginning of the project's five-phase programme. Final designs, updated costs and delivery plans are due to be presented for consideration in November.
Phase one priorities include new wayfinding signage between Haslar and Hardway, a new gateway feature at the ferry port, an accessible viewing platform at Victoria Quay, as well as new landscaping, seating, lighting and artificial rockpools.
Councillor Zoe Huggins, leader of Gosport Borough Council, said: "We're embarking on an exciting programme to reinvigorate our waterfront for residents and tourists alike.
"These initial projects will increase footfall, attract new visitors, and make the waterfront a more enjoyable and accessible place to spend time. In turn this will help unlock more confidence and investment in our town.
"Our wider masterplan sets out our longer-term vision, and we'll continue to seek more funding to deliver more projects along the waterfront over the years to come."
