A MAJOR redevelopment in Winchester is evolving to be smaller in size.

Architects are drawing up new plans for Station Approach after the previous scheme collapsed in 2016 amid criticism that it was too large.

The new ideas include the retention of the former register office and South Western pub which had originally been earmarked for demolition.

The city council which owns most of the land envisages high-quality office space, shops, car parking and around 90 homes in the area that stretches from Gladstone Street to the Cattle Market area between Andover Road and Worthy Lane.

The public today has the chance to meet the architects developing ideas for the Station Approach development has been announced.

A drop-in information evening is on this evening from 5pm to 8pm at the Hampshire Record Office on Sussex Street in Winchester. Around 120 people attended one last Wednesday.

It replaces one postponed on Saturday March 3 following the heavy snowfall. The city council has extended the event by one hour to allow additional time for commuters to attend.

Two additional public exhibitions on Saturday March 17 will be held in Alresford (at the Swan Hotel from 10am to 12noon) and Bishop’s Waltham (at King’s Church from 3pm to 5pm).

All events are open to everyone who would like to see the masterplan, meet the architects, ask questions about this scheme and opt to stay informed via the ongoing public consultations for the development.

Outcomes from engagement activities will help evolve the Station Approach plans in preparation for a Cabinet Committee meeting in July 2018.

Mark Baulch, of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, who attended a recent stakeholder workshop, said: "I would like to make it clear that we support the development, for the benefit of the Winchester economy. There are many positive elements to the scheme. "

Mr Baulch raised concerns about proposed changes to buses, including making Station Hill one-way up the hill and no left turns for buses at the Carfax junction into Sussex Street which he said could undo the good work in encouraging people to use buses and park and ride.

Catherine Turness, executive director of the Winchester Business Improvement District, said: "Like the Chamber, the BID is fully supportive of the development especially as the lack of grade A office space remains a concern for many of our members.

"I have asked WCC to be particularly mindful of the current BID members and existing businesses on Stockbridge Road who could benefit hugely from the scheme, if access and the public realm is improved from the station to their shopfronts."