A crucial decision on Sainsbury’s proposal to transform the former Homebase site in Fareham into a supermarket is anticipated before June 30, following months of planning deliberation.
The retail giant lodged its application with Fareham Borough Council last October, seeking to occupy the empty unit on Newgate Lane. Originally hoping for swift approval to begin construction early this year, the proposal remains under review as the deadline approaches.
Hampshire County Council Highways has expressed reservations about the scheme, requesting additional details regarding potential traffic increases and questioning the adequacy of parking provision and pedestrian-cyclist facilities. The retail park currently houses Farmfoods, Matalan, Pets at Home and Costa, after Homebase shut its doors last December.
Traffic and parking concerns
An overflow car park exists across Frankport Way, though Hampshire County Council noted in planning documents that inadequate signage might “discourage its use” and create “congestion and delays for customers”. The facility also accommodates non-retail users, potentially exacerbating capacity problems.
The county authority questioned accessibility for those without cars. Whilst recognising that “walking and cycling infrastructure near the site is generally good”, it referenced the Fareham Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan 2022, which recommended enhancements along Newgate Lane.
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Proposed solutions
Recent March submissions reveal Sainsbury’s has offered £20,000 towards improving cycling and walking routes to the location should planning permission be granted. The company also plans implementing a car park management system with four-hour maximum stays and enhanced signage directing customers to overflow parking.
Hampshire County Council has suggested conditions preventing development until footpath completion from the car park to Newgate Lane and installation of cycle parking facilities. These requirements aim to ensure “pedestrian safety” and “support sustainable travel”.
Public response
Local residents have largely endorsed the application. One supporter commented: “I totally support this application, at the moment going to Sainsbury’s at Broadcut means struggling through the Fareham town traffic causing even more pollution.”
Another resident stated: “I firmly support this proposal from Sainsbury’s. It is a nightmare trying to get through Fareham to the existing one from Gosport, and is additional miles/air pollution that can be removed by approving the new store on Newgate lane.”
However, concerns persist about increased traffic volumes. One objector warned: “Parking and queueing on Newgate Lane will be a major issue. On quiet days, with the shops virtually empty, the car park is still extremely busy, as a result. The overflow carpark is completely unknown to most visitors and not signposted to draw attention to it either.”
The application remains under consideration with Fareham Borough Council. To view or comment on the proposals, visit the council’s planning portal and search for application P/24/1302/VC.
