Gosport has a huge, once-in-a-generation opportunity to revitalise and maximise the potential of the town's waterfront.
What's next for Gosport's waterfront
With the help of funding from the UK Government through the Levelling Up Fund, we're hoping to make a real impact over the next few years, on a number of projects
Waterfront heritage route
We're working with the Arts Council to develop ideas for public art and other interventions along our waterfront, between the town centre and Hardway.
This will include improving connectivity along existing and new sections of the route to bring more visitors to destinations like Royal Clarence Yard and Priddy's Hard. We will also be telling the story of our heritage and creating a joined up look and feel to the information, public art, interpretation, seating and more along the route.
Next steps
We're reviewing the feedback we've received so far from the community, and will be bringing forward more specific plans in early 2025.
Renovating the 'Rum Store'
With Government funding, we are also working with UK Docks to renovate a derelict Grade II listed building in the heart of Royal Clarence Yard. The 'Rum Store' is a key part of the jigsaw of our waterfront and restoring it will create new employment space and a new leisure destination for visitors.
Next steps
Initial proposals for conservation work on the Rum Store have been published, with a view to a full planning application for the proposals coming forward before Christmas.
What's happened so far
The Gosport Lines - Autumn 2024
Gosport residents, businesses and community groups were invited to have their say on bold new concepts for public art installations and interpretation on the town's waterfront.
The Gosport Lines exhibition explored different ways that culture and creativity can help tell Gosport's history, and link up existing heritage sites throughout the town.
The consultation concluded in October 2024, and the responses are being reviewed and fed into the next steps.
A new transport interchange for the town
In October 2024 the town's bus services moved to a newly-built transport interchange equipped with seating, lighting and real time passenger information. This work was led by Hampshire County Council, and part-funded by the government's Transforming Cities Fund (TCF), along with contributions from Gosport Borough Council and local developers.
In turn, this vacates a waterfront site which we plan to develop as a high quality public open space. This will become a gateway to the new waterfront heritage route, as well as creating new venues for food and drink businesses. The space will draw in visitors and create a place for community focus for the evening economy.
