Eastleigh residents discuss plans to turn old Martine’s nightclub into flats

An application recently submitted to Eastleigh Borough Council outlines plans to turn the former Martine’s nightclub into flats.

The club has had a vast and varied history with numerous plans to repurpose and reopen the well-loved venue - only for it to remain boarded up since the early 2000s.

Now the Market Street building could be given a new lease of life.

Martine's in Eastleigh

If approved, work will begin to build 18 new flats and four commercial units on the site.

Residents have mixed views about the proposals but the overall consensus is that it is good the space might finally be used.

Former Martine’s employee Carrol Silverston said the building has “so much potential.”

She said: “It had so much potential for so many things.

“It’s such a shame the building has been left to deteriorate over such a long period of time.

“I personally think as long as it’s actually being used for something, it’s better than being left to decay any further.”

Martine's in Eastleigh

Creating more homes and business space could drive revenue into the town centre, according to Oliver Bentley.

He said: “It seems like a project that would provide sustainable retail space, by dividing the space up and reducing the rates and also address the issue of not having enough homes nationwide.

“Also, by moving more people into the town centre, it is possible this could drive revenue into the town centre.”

However, some think the building would be better served as a clothes store (with Primark being a popular example), while others would like to welcome more attractions such as crazy golf to the area.

Martine's in Eastleigh

Amy Morgan said the area does not need more flats.

She said: “I would much prefer a Primark or another clothes shop since there are barely any in Eastleigh now.

“We don’t need more flats, banks or coffee shops.”

Reena Khatun said: “The whole town needs revamp. There is nothing in Eastleigh in terms of shopping opportunities.

“People need to go to Southampton to buy everything.”

Eastleigh Borough Council has confirmed the application is in the consultation stage.

A decision on the plans is due to be made on July 25.

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