Controversial plan for Netley's Station Hotel (From Daily Echo)

Controversial plan for Netley's Station Hotel

7:20am Wednesday 25th November 2009

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A DECISION day is looming over controversial plans to bulldoze a derelict Hampshire pub and replace it with houses and retail space.

Developers want to demolish the old Station Hotel in Netley, which has been boarded up ever since the last pint was served there in 2008.

Primetower Properties Ltd want to replace the building with 14 three-bedroom homes, a new Tesco Express store and three office units. Planning experts say the scheme should get the go-ahead – despite opposition from Hound Parish Council, which has fears over increased parking, extra traffic and the impact it could have on wildlife.

A panel of architects has also attacked the proposals, claiming that the designs are “uninspired and generic”.

But members of Bursledon, Hamble-Le-Rice and Hound Local Area Committee are being urged to back the scheme.

A report due to go before councillors says: “As the proposed shop, offices and family housing proposed could be considered to offer a package more appropriate to the needs of the community, the loss of the pub in this particular case is not considered unacceptable.

“In terms of providing a viable redevelopment opportunity, this proposal is one to be encouraged.”

Councillors will be told that 15 parking spaces will be provided for retail purposes, 12 for office use and 21 for residents.

Office space would be provided on two floors above the Tesco store and a tower-style section of the building, which would rise to four storeys.

Committee members will vote on the matter at Hamble Primary School tomorrow at 5.30pm.

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