03-08-2025
Councillor welcomes plan to upgrade part of 'challenging' retail area
A developer has unveiled plans to transform a town centre site by replacing the existing buildings with two new shops and 14 flats.
Totton Developments Ltd has submitted an application to redevelop part of Rumbridge Street, a popular shopping area next to the A35 Totton Bypass.
Its application says the existing buildings "are of low quality and offer no significant value to the street scene".
The site is currently occupied by two commercial units with residential accommodation above, and an outbuilding.
The proposed development comprises a three-storey building containing 12 flats and two shops on the ground floor, plus a two-storey building that would deliver two flats.
An aerial view of the proposed site and the surrounding buildings (Image: PLC Architects)
Totton councillor David Harrison said: "Rumbridge Street has long been something of a challenge in terms of a sustainable retail area.
"It suffers from a poor environment, often with traffic congestion backed up from the train gates in Junction Road, and is out-competed by retail offers north of the railway line.
"This application might well help refresh things whilst also providing much needed housing opportunities, particularly for younger people.
"Longer term, I'm hoping plans to regenerate Totton include making the whole of Rumbridge Street a much more attractive area to both live in and go shopping".
An artist's impression of the proposed development at Rumbridge Street in Totton (Image: PLC)
Totton Developments has submitted its plans to New Forest District Council.
READ MORE: Go-ahead for pan to replace derelict building in Rumbridge Street with seven flats and a shop
A design and access statement that accompanies the application says: "The overall footprint of the proposed development is similar to that of the existing ground floor plans.
"Improvements to the landscaping will include gravel footpaths, a grassed communal area, and newly-planted hedgerows.
"Local amenities are within close proximity to the site. These include an abundance of employment and leisure opportunities for the future occupiers.
"This is a sustainable location where future residents will be able to integrate within the community.
"The applicant will be seeking to provide the necessary infrastructure to enable a fibre connection to be provided to the new development.
"Design features have been carefully considered to provide a development that fits within the context of the neighbouring properties."
A planning statement says one of the existing shops on the site is currently empty.
"The proposed development seeks to maintain and enhance the existing shopping frontage by reinstating two smaller commercial units located at ground floor."
