11:50am Wednesday 8th September 2010
By Matt Smith
THREE developers have been shortlisted to transform Southampton's Royal Pier into a world-class waterfront.
Council bosses have been inviting the best architects and developers in the business to compete for the chance to reshape the area around Mayflower Park.
They want to ensure a permanent and improved site for the city's annual international boat show and better public pedestrian access to the waterfront.
The 60-acre site, which is owned by the city council, the Crown Estate and ABP, could feature offices, hotels, restaurants, shops, luxury flats, marina, indoor arena and casino.
Council leader cllr Royston Smith said: "Developing the Royal Pier waterfront has been a long time coming, and I am excited we are now moving forward, short listing three strong developers."Despite the current financial climate Southampton continues to attract interest for developments in the city."The Royal Pier waterfront is a unique opportunity for development partners, not only to become part of one of the most dynamic cities emerging in Europe, but also to create a legacy in Southampton of which they can be truly proud." The redevelopment will also provide an opportunity to demolish the remains of Southampton's Royal Pier after part of it collapsed this summer.
About 30 metres of the derelict structure crashed into the water as stunned onlookers watched from Mayflower Park.
The pier's owners, ABP, have refused to commit the estimated £3m needed to clear the 177-year-old former landmark.
They say it will only disappear when a developer signs up to transform the entire site into a luxury development.Over the coming months the developers will prepare concept scheme proposals which will include their initial design ideas. The preferred developer is expected to be selected in March 2011.
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