Town's $21 million development proposal approved by council

The local council has approved plans to construct the first multi-storey car park in Romsey on the site currently occupied by Crosfield Hall. Test Valley Borough Council intends to demolish the historic hall and replace it with a three-level parking facility as part of a comprehensive 21 million town centre redevelopment.

The wider project will also transform the towns bus station and surface car park into a new, smaller community hall, retail units, and 20 residential flats.

During the council meeting, members were urged to approve the plan promptly to secure funding, as ongoing local government reorganisation could put the budget at risk. Crosfield Hall, which hosts exhibitions and classes and was built in 1936, is set for demolition.

Despite approval, public opinion remains divided. At a previous planning exhibition, some residents described the proposed multi-storey parking structure as visually unappealing. Around 50 people attended the full council meeting to express their views.

Neill Beasley of the Romsey and District Society expressed concerns that the new community hall should be designed as a prominent building with surrounding open space, rather than being integrated with shops and flats. Councillor Mark Cooper remarked that Romsey often resists change, noting that newcomers wish to preserve the towns existing character.

Council leader Phil North highlighted that the planning process has already spanned ten years and emphasized the urgency of completing the project within the next year to retain the allocated budget before the council is dissolved.

The council has now authorized architects to create detailed designs, with a formal planning application scheduled for 2027.

Author: Riley Thompson