Megan Horn

Winchester City Council is developing plans for 30 affordable homes on St Peter’s car park, which currently provides 185 spaces near the city centre. The council aims to reduce central parking and encourage use of edge-of-city park-and-ride facilities, but local users are divided. Some support the housing proposal, particularly if the homes remain affordable, while others stress the car park’s convenience, profitability, existing traffic problems and importance for businesses and visitors. A council Cabinet report on the proposal is scheduled for August 25.

Residents are divided over Canterbury-based Corkk Ltd’s application to open an English wine shop and bar at 7 Great Minster Street in Winchester. Ann Scott objects on grounds of noise and concerns that outdoor seating could force wheelchair and mobility-scooter users into the road, while Richard Sullivan supports the proposal and says Corkk would likely manage outdoor tables responsibly. Winchester City Council’s licensing committee is due to consider the application, which includes plans to sell wine for consumption on or off the premises alongside coffee, tea, snacks and cold food. The existing occupant, Design House, plans to relocate to Romsey.