WINCHESTER businesses have discussed the new Silver Hill scheme with the city council – although the feedback they gave is currently unknown.

The project, now known as Central Winchester Regeneration, will transform the area currently occupied by the bus station, Kings Walk, Friarsgate Medical Centre and Coitbury House.

Local companies were invited to a consultation event where they heard the latest proposals.

However, in its news release about the event, the city council did not detail any of the feedback it received.

Instead it featured a comment from Cllr Kelsie Learney, cabinet member for housing and asset management, who said: "It was so inspiring to hear from businesses based in the city about what it would mean to them for this area to be re-energised. At such a difficult time for businesses, especially those in retail and hospitality who still took the time to attend this session, it is essential we can look forward to a brighter future.

"Our proposals to revitalise the Central Winchester Regeneration area will play a critical role in the road to recovery.

"We are delighted by the level of support for the plans shown by the business owners that attended this meeting and look forward to working with them more closely as our plans for the area progress."

Discussions at the session focused on timescales for delivery as well what would happen to existing businesses.

The group also shared their thoughts on the creative, mixed use nature of the plans

Paul Spencer, executive director of Winchester BID, said: "There was lots of positively from local businesses attending the consultation session and there is a real desire to see Central Winchester Regeneration move forward.

"As a city we must take the next step together towards realising the potential for this site as a vibrant mixed-use destination which will greatly benefit local people.

"I strongly encourage business owners and people who live, work or study in Winchester to take the time to engage with this consultation process, give your feedback and let’s make this happen."