Local Labour Councillors have spoken out on the latest planning application submitted in relation to the proposed redevelopment of the Romsey Labour club building, which closes for consultation today. The application which proposes to partially demolish the building and instead put 43 serviced apartments in its place has been opposed by Romsey Councillors who have raised several concerns in relation to the development.

Councillor Mairead Healy commented:

“I am strongly opposed to this latest application which seeks to partially demolish one of our oldest and most culturally significant buildings in Romsey and have submitted objections to the planning application. The proposed 43 serviced apartments not only does not meet any local housing need whatsoever in our area-for serviced apartments- but would also represent a significant blow to our community in destroying what is an important and historic landmark in our area. There is significant local opposition to this and I don’t see how the developers can move ahead without consulting with our community on the buildings future. Personally, I think the site should be developed to serve local community needs and would welcome a discussion on how that can be achieved.”

Councillor Dinah Pounds said:

“The latest proposal for developing Romsey Labour Club does not address any of the concerns already voiced by Romsey Councillors. The development is out of character for the area which forms part of Romsey’s conservation area. 43 tiny single aspect, serviced apartments crammed onto the site with no green space for residents in no way meets a local need and fails to meet the basic standards we would expect to be provided for people to live in. The parking proposed for bikes is insufficient and there is no car parking at all which will impact negatively on the surrounding streets already heavily used for parking.”