Hovertravel’s Southsea terminal could be demolished and redeveloped as part of plans for a new transport hub.
The new connected interchange would enhance the transport services and infrastructure in and around the area of Clarence Pier. The improvements would ensure better accessibility of the area, as well as easing the transition between different transport modes across the site.
Ambitions for Southsea seafront were unveiled during a meeting of Portsmouth City Council’s Traffic and Transportation cabinet last week.
The current hovercraft terminal – which has remained unchanged for decades – has been described as ‘underwhelming’ with limited facilities. However, under Pompey’s plans, the new terminal could boast a wider range of uses including a cafe/bar complete with far-reaching views over the Solent. There are even aspirations of a flexible space for office/venue facilities and a learning facility or museum of hovercraft.
The existing public toilet block across the road is proposed to be removed and new facilities provided within the redeveloped Hovertravel terminal, which in turn will create the realisation of a large public space. This would include accessible toilets and changing rooms.
As part of the wider scheme, there are hopes that the Clarence Pier site could be transformed into a flagship 4-star hotel with conference, spa and leisure facilities.
Discussions between local stakeholders have been ongoing with the Isle of Wight NHS Trust also involved in the planning owing to its relationship with Hovertravel to transport patients to Queen Alexandra Hospital. It is hoped that the new terminal would have ambulance parking facilities on-site to support an easier and smoother transition of patients.
Feasibility funding of £50,000 has now been allocated to support initial concept designs associated with the transport hub and public realm, alongside refining a clear brief for the redevelopment of the hovercraft terminal – something Hovertravel has recognised needs doing.
Moving forward, monthly meetings will now be held to share ideas and move the project forward with public engagement and consultation to follow.
I’m confused, is Hovertravel paying, or the gov?
Why do we want a new terminal when the Hovercraft is cancelled more times than it runs.
What a waste of money