Demolition plan for historic shop site takes a step forward with bid to replace it with new homes
Plans to knock down the former home of Fareham’s oldest business to make way for flats have taken a step forward.
The borough council’s housing department, Fareham Housing, has formally submitted proposals to transform the vacant furniture shop Birks of Fareham site into 23 flats and two new shops.
The plans come two years after the beloved furniture business – which first opened in 1912 – closed its doors for good and, as previously reported by The News, Fareham Borough Council purchased the site from Mr Douglas Birks in 2024 as part of its efforts to increase the amount of affordable housing in the borough.
If plans are approved, a total of 23 new flats will be built at 130-136 West Street, along with two commercial units. There will only be two parking spaces and one disabled parking space available.
Described as a “small-scale development”, the plans submitted by the council state that it will “enhance the character of the site” and benefit the town centre by providing “much-needed new affordable housing”.
The plans read: “The new buildings will be to a high-quality design using construction methods and materials which reflect the style and appearance of the best local properties, with a mix of contemporary and traditional detailing.
“They will thus contribute positively to the overall character and visual amenity of the area.”
The council also believes the redevelopment of the site will lead to a “catalyst of renewal of this area”, alongside the existing town centre regeneration.
All 23 new homes on the site will be affordable, and will include a mix of residential units consisting of 14 studio flats, six one-bedroom flats, one two-bedroom flat, and two, two-bedroom flats.
The council said: “The proposed scheme, to be submitted for planning, has been carefully considered in relation to the surrounding context and the needs of the community.
“In summary, the proposed development at 130–136 West Street will make a meaningful contribution to addressing local housing need in Fareham town centre.”
A decision on the plans must be made by the council by June 25, 2026.
For the latest planning applications and public notices visit https://publicnoticeportal.uk/