"At long last we are getting on with it" Demolition work begins at old Gosport Bus Station as bold new 'People's Park' plans take a step forward
Demolition work has finally begun at the former Gosport Bus Depot as bold regeneration plans to create a ‘People’s Park’ take a step forward.
Gosport waterfront is set to be transformed with the former bus station transformed into a new public park to create an attractive “gateway” into the borough, providing a welcoming focal point for residents and visitors alike.
Demolition work was due to begin in the summer but was delayed as a result of nesting birds, but contractors PMC Construction & Development Services are now on site and have begun to sweep away the Bus Station following the creation nearby of its replacement last year. The work is expected to be completed by the end of October.
The works coincide with the submission of a planning application for the creation of a new building to house eateries, as well as a roof terrace and new ticket office for the Gosport Ferry. Plans also include new landscaping for the area, as well as improvements to the nearby public toilets.
Proposals include:
- A new purpose-built performance structure at the heart of the park to host live events
- A low-rise building on the western edge, accommodating cafés and bars
- New and improved public toilets, including a fully accessible Changing Places facility
- A modern ferry ticket kiosk
- New bicycle repair concession
- Total of 20 new trees planted – six more than the number currently on site
Watch the video embedded in this story to hear more about the plans from Councillor Peter Chegwyn, leader of Gosport Borough Council.
The initial landscaping will begin next month and will be finished by February 2026, with a new grassy area created, low evergreen shrubs and flower bulbs planted along the promenade edge, a resin-bound gravel pathway created to connect the promenade with the walkway from the High Street, and a circular base created to support a future performance space.
Then, if planning permission is granted, then works are expected to begin on the new business units in early December for a July 2026 completion - with units available for occupation/fit out from May 2026 onwards.
Councillor Peter Chegwyn, leader of Gosport Borough Council, said: "The demolition of the old bus station has been a long time coming - but it now frees up an important site for the community to benefit from.
“The new People's Park, opening over the coming months, will be a space for residents and visitors to enjoy our historic waterfront - complete with an events space, and cafes and bars."
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