Thornfield hints at Silver Hill changes (From Hampshire Chronicle)

Thornfield hints at Silver Hill changes

8:37am Monday 16th October 2006 in Silver Hill By Andrew Napier

THE developer hoping to revamp part of Winchester's city centre is to alter its plans after concerns were raised from residents and other interested parties.

Thornfield Properties has agreed to take another look at the redevelopment of the Silver Hill area, although it gave no indication of what changes it might make.

Company spokesman, Rick Mai, said: "There have been criticisms of some aspects of the design, and as a responsible developer that takes public consultation very seriously, we are reviewing these with our professional advisors."

Thornfield Properties wants to breathe new life into the area between The Broadway and Friarsgate in a £100m overhaul.

The scheme includes 285 new homes, 35 shops and a replacement bus station.

But the plans have been criticised, especially over the size of some of the proposed buildings. The largest blocks would be six stories high, making them as tall as the Brooks Centre's clock tower.

In addition, the loss of trees has also been the cause of many complaints.

Many of these views are shared by the City of Winchester Trust, which believes the site is being overdeveloped.

Last week, Winchester MP Mark Oaten met with Thornfield bosses to get an update on how things were progressing.

He said: "We had a positive meeting and I am confident that they are listening to local views, particularly with regard to the height and design of some of the buildings."

City council leader, Cllr George Beckett, said: "Thornfield has taken the public consultation seriously and responded to what has been said.

"We look forward to working with them as they bring any alterations forward."