'This is a terrible idea': Locals raise fears over developer's vision for old Lloyds Bank branch
Plans to turn a former bank in Portchester into six homes are set to be approved by Fareham Borough Council, despite concerns from local residents.
City Estates submitted an application in September 2025 to convert the vacant Lloyds Bank building at 18 West Street into a 10-bedroom House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) with an additional storey.
The proposal prompted objections from residents worried about the loss of retail space, parking, noise, and potential increases in crime and antisocial behaviour.
One local business owner said: “The precinct should retain as many shops as it can. This will take away a valuable place for a business and harm the diversity of the area.
“There are also concerns over parking and potential antisocial behaviour from or towards HMO residents. I can’t see any positive outcome for Portchester from this development.”
One resident described the site as “totally unsuitable for this type of dwelling,” adding: “The area is peaceful and a close community of generally older residents. Introducing an HMO, which may be used to house migrants, has no place in our community.
“Given its location in a shopping precinct, this is a terrible idea.”
Others echoed fears that HMO developments can sometimes be associated with disruptive behaviour and could negatively impact families living nearby.
“A dwelling of multiple occupation HMO would certainly not be within the interests of local residents of Portchester,” one said.
“Many illegal migrants are placed in HMO accommodation which statistically indicates criminal activity. HMO builds need to be within cities and not semi-rural communities that predominantly are home to more elderly population”.
Another long-term resident added: “I have lived in the village all my life. It deeply concerns me for my children and my family’s safety.
“The bank is right opposite a public house, this is a recipe for disaster. I am sure many residents in Portchester feel the same. I feel the crime rate will escalate in the area.”
A small number of residents and supporters highlighted potential benefits.
One said the project would “bring more people into the shopping area” while keeping retail units on the ground floor.
Another added that it would provide much-needed housing.
Following discussions between council officers and the applicant, the plans were amended to remove HMO bedrooms from the ground floor, reducing the total number of bedrooms from 10 to six.
Officers said the changes addressed concerns about privacy and proximity to neighbouring properties while retaining more retail space.
A council report, due to be presented to Fareham Borough Council’s planning committee on Wednesday, February 11, said: “The proposal, as amended, aims to keep the majority of the ground floor as retail units and proposes to convert the upper floors to residential accommodation.
“Therefore, officers consider that the principle of development of the land is acceptable subject to all other material considerations.”
The planning committee is being asked to approve the scheme.