Developers have unveiled updated plans for Kingston’s former post office site, including a new square with shops, restaurants and flats to rival Charter Quay.
A public exhibition run by St George also showcased proposals for a community space, al fresco dining, residents’ gardens and an office at the site in Ashdown Road Car Park.
Proposal: An artist's impression of the old post office site
Marilyn Mason, from Transition Town Kingston, said: “These are all drawings – who knows what it is going to look like in reality.
“But St George seem quite sensitive to the history of the site and that is important.
“Almost anything they put there would be more attractive than a car park. I like that they are offering community space.”
An exhibition slide stated: “A mix of high quality restaurants and retailers will create a new destination within Kingston's Eden Quarter and complement the offer of the wider town centre.
“It would provide a much needed 'hub' in this area of the town centre.”
Of Kingston’s three listed building’s on English Heritage’s at risk register, two of these are on the site - the former post office and the old telephone exchange.
St George proposes to reinstate the two buildings and make the post office the centrepiece of the new development as a place for community activities and turning the telephone exchange into an office.
The new public square will include trees, shrubs, new paving and lighting as well as cycle parking.
Proposed greenery at the site
The proposal also includes 400 private and affordable homes as well as a penthouse shaped like a wave and described as a “rhythmic skyline”.
Plans: The "rhythmic skyline"
One visitor to the exhibition said: “The site needs development.
“I think the important thing is that it does not pretend to be another part of Kingston like the Market Place or the Bentall Centre – but it needs its own identity.
“The height looks a bit big but we want to encourage development – it’s just about getting it right as you only get one go at this.”
A planning application is expected to be submitted later this year.
For more information visit theoldpostofficekingston.com.
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