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Search the Public Notice PortalPlans to future-proof a major warehouse and showroom amid uncertainty over its future have been unveiled.
The proposals, submitted to Eastleigh Borough Council, aim to give greater flexibility over how the Magnet warehouse and showroom in Hedge End can be used.
The application has been prompted by the kitchen retailer’s financial difficulties and an ongoing restructuring process, according to planning documents.
The unit at Hamilton Business Park currently operates as a warehouse, trade counter and showroom.
But the proposed changes would allow it to be used for storage and distribution, research and development, industrial processes or general industrial purposes.
According to the planning statement, Magnet has faced “ongoing trading difficulties” and was acquired by investment firm Alteri Investors for “a nominal sum.”
The document states that on July 1 this year the building owner, Summerbrook Ltd, was informed that Magnet had proposed a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) as part of a wider effort to return the business to financial stability.
The applicant said uncertainty remains over the company’s future and that securing more flexible planning permission will broaden the building’s appeal if it becomes vacant.
The statement said: “The proposal is for a sustainable form of development.
“It delivers economic benefits through generating income and jobs for the local economy, social benefits by providing goods and services, and environmental benefits in seeking to secure the continued use of a brownfield site.”
The 12,000 sq ft unit sits within the business park alongside other commercial occupiers, including Wickes and a recently opened Starbucks.
The site has 18 car parking spaces, cycle parking and direct access to the motorway network via junction seven of the M27.
Agents acting for the applicant said the proposal would restore the flexibility granted under the site’s original planning permissions, allowing the premises to “attract a wider range of occupiers” while maintaining employment use.
They argued the change would help secure the continued productive use of the building and support jobs should Magnet cease trading from the site.
No external alterations are proposed as part of the application, and planning documents state the building has operated in its current form for around 14 years without issue.
The papers also said there are no nearby residential neighbours likely to be affected by the change.
Public consultation runs until September 16, with a decision date of October 19 set by the council.
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