A WINCHESTER architect practice has been appointed to lead a master planning team for Station Approach.

Design Engine will develop a concept masterplan for the £150 million regeneration of the land between Gladstone Street and the Cattle Market on Andover Road, including the station car parks and Carfax site.

They are based a stone's throw from the area on Coker Close in Fulflood.

Ideas for Station Approach include up to 250 new homes, offices, shops, cafes and restaurants.

Station Approach, a development area around Winchester Railway Station, is an opportunity to transform a key gateway into a sustainable mixed-used development for the benefit of the city and the wider district. 

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No stranger to developing projects in Winchester, Design Engine has worked over nearly two decades master planning development at the University of Winchester and delivered a series of award-winning buildings enhancing the campus. The practice has forged a strong local connection to the city through both its work and team. 

Cllr Martin Tod, leader of Winchester City Council, said: “I’m really excited that Richard and Design Engine are taking on the Station Approach project and have pulled together such a strong team to support them. They know and love our city and have done such great work here.  After the careful consultation on the project so far and confirmation of the importance of a connected, sustainable development that’s fit for Winchester’s future, now’s the time to move to the next stage.”

Richard Jobson, founding director of Design Engine, said: "Design Engine have worked within Winchester for over 20 years, with our directors living locally, so it is with great excitement that we now have the opportunity to develop a masterplan for this gateway to the city.

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"We are aware of the considerable interest in these sites; we therefore look forward to working with Cllr Tod, the council, and local stakeholders, to provide a sustainable roadmap for the coming years. Our aim is to offer the people of Winchester and visitors a considered development to enrich their experience of this historic city."

Public engagement sessions will begin in summer next year, the concept masterplan is expected to be submitted for endorsement by the council’s cabinet in early 2025. 

For more details, visit winchesterstationapproach.co.uk.