RINGWOOD town centre is set for a radical revamp if an expansive development gets the green light from New Forest District Council.
The applicant, Development Securities Furlong Ltd, wants to build a mixed-use development on the site beside the Furlong Centre, which includes White Hart Centre Place and 11-13 Meeting House Lane.
The proposed development will see 13 shops built alongside three office units and 12 residential flats with basement car parking as well as a conversion of the Old Town Hall for retail and residential use.
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Two similar redevelopment schemes, which included plans for a cinema, have been submitted in the past but were withdrawn by the applicants in September 2003.
An initial brief by planning officers for benefit of the parish and town council consultations stated the proposal would open up an area of the town centre which is currently inaccessible and unattractive, potentially providing a more pleasing environment and adding to the town centre activities.
But the report warned that care was needed to ensure the external appearance of the buildings is sympathetic to the character and appearance of the historic town, which is part of Ringwood's conservation area.
The officer concluded the proposal was acceptable in principle as it had the potential to uplift the character of a neglected part of the town, adding to the vitality of the commercial centre.
Jeff Wickens, chairman of Ringwood Society, said they welcomed the decision by the council to rethink the corner of the car park, hoping this might provide an opportunity to get things right.
He said: "We realise there will always be change but we do not like much of what has been on offer. What we do want is good quality design and buildings, which reflect the scale, location and character of the town.
"This is not an easy task but it is possible and we look forward to welcoming those who have a genuine interest in the town and can meet the challenge."
A recommendation on the proposal will be made in the next few weeks.
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