Community shows support for the Co-operative's Locks Heath Proposals

Over 200 people attended an exhibition hosted by The Co-operative Group to gauge public support for its alternative proposals for the redevelopment of the Locks Heath District Centre.

The Co-operative’s proposals are in response to Fareham Borough Council’s proposed masterplan, which The Co-operative believes will seriously damage the viability of the area and drive footfall away from existing retailers.

Eighty six percent of visitors surveyed during the consultation showed support for the alternative proposal, which includes an enhanced leisure offering for the local community, while retaining a retail focus to support the existing traders within the centre, including an extended food store with 1,600 sqm of floor space.

A team of managers and store staff from The Co-operative’s Food and Property teams hosted the event, and were on hand to answer questions and take suggestions.

Nigel Wicks, Operations Manager for The Co-operative in Locks Heath, said: “We were delighted with the turn-out at our exhibition, but, what’s more, the support for our alternative proposal was a great indicator that we are suggesting a scheme that local people want.

“Many people in the area share our concerns about the council’s masterplan and we hope we have the opportunity to progress our alternative to benefit the local community and existing traders alike.”

The Co-operative has lodged an official objection to Fareham Borough Council’s masterplan for Locks Heath following the support received at the public exhibition.