Plans to demolish RAOB club in Winchester resubmitted

Agents Southern Planning Practice has resubmitted plans to Winchester City Council to demolish the former RAOB club site in Cross Keys Passage, and build seven flats above a ground-floor shop.

It is the developers’ second attempt after their original application was refused in 2024.

Lodged in April, the revised plans propose homes above a shop or other commercial space. The scheme would provide seven homes: four one-bedroom flats, two with two bedrooms and one with three.

So far, three people have supported the plans on the planning portal and two have opposed them.

Ian Tait, former city councillor and member of the planning committee, who supports the application, said: "By developing the RAOB building with a very high quality architect-designed block of apartments they will breathe new life into the area.

"The commercial use on the ground floor will mean that more people will use Cross Keys Passage and this will deter the anti-social behaviour.

"This is an accepted principle in urban design and public safety."

He went on to accept the heritage concerns but said the derelict site made conservation arguments harder to justify, particularly with Kings Walk still standing.

The recent planning application outside the building. (Image: Eve Thompson)

Mr Tait said: "Yes there are important heritage assets close by but I challenge the Council to justify a refusal on conservation terms when the area is so badly affected by the existing derelict building and Kings Walk."

Neighbouring pub Alfie’s has raised concerns about noise, living conditions and the threat to its business, citing the “agent of change” principle.

City council planning officers recommended refusing the original application, citing that the plans failed to "recognise, protect and enhance" the area’s character and historic setting.

Planning officers also said the proposal would create an overbearing presence and harm the setting of surrounding listed buildings.

The RAOB club, the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes, opened in Winchester in 1964 and became a social and charity hub for more than 50 years.

The club reportedly had 200 to 400 members at its peak but closed in March 2017 as numbers fell and major repairs were needed.

Its closure ended one of Winchester’s last traditional men’s clubs, after the East Winchester Social Club in Chesil Street had also shut.

Winchester City Council must receive public comments by September 17.

The application is listed on the council’s planning portal under reference 26/00477/ful.