Gosport's old bus station could be replaced by People's Park

Gosport Borough Council has drawn up proposals to redevelop land currently occupied by the town's former bus station, which is awaiting demolition.

Proposals include 1,400sqm of grass, plus evergreen shrubs low enough to allow panoramic views of the harbour.

People using the facility will be able to gaze at the 560ft Spinnaker Tower as well as watching warships, ferries, and other vessels entering and leaving Portsmouth.

Gosport Borough Council has revealed the design of the proposed People's Park overlooking Portsmouth Harbour (Image: Gosport Borough Council)

Some of the trees will be removed but the council is planning to plant 20 new ones, resulting in an increase of six. A gravel path will cross the park, linking the promenade to a walkway from the High Street.

The park will also feature a circular base for a proposed new performance area.

A planning application has been submitted and work is expected to begin in late spring if the project is given the go-ahead.

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Town hall bosses are hoping the park will open to the public in the summer.

The council leader, Cllr Peter Chegwyn, said: "The new People's Park is at the heart of our plans for a revitalised waterfront.

"It's an important public space at the gateway to our borough, and these designs will better welcome visitors by ferry and bus.

"It will also create a new community focal point - especially as we develop our future plans for a permanent performance space, cafes and bars, new public toilets and a new ferry ticket office."

The former bus station has been boarded up and is awaiting demolition. Buses now operate for a new site nearby (Image: Newsquest)

The current application covers the first phase of the scheme.

Future proposals are set to include the performance area itself, which will host live events. The park will also boast food and drink outlets, improved public toilets, and a new ticket kiosk for the Gosport Ferry.

That phase of the project is due to be completed by the summer of 2026.

The 53-year-old bus station has often been described as ugly and outdated. Campaigners have repeatedly urged the council to make better use of the "gateway" site.

The two-storey building between Harbour Tower and the Falklands Gardens has been boarded up, with buses operating from a new site nearby.