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Date submitted

6 August 2026

Submitted by

Interested party

The plans include four three-storey accommodation blocks reaching up to 12 metres. They would be substantially taller than the historic barracks and many nearby homes, with two blocks close to the Haslar Barracks Conservation Area. The height, bulk, roofline and utilitarian appearance could harm the historic character of the peninsula and affect outlook, privacy, daylight and sunlight. Royal Hospital Haslar is being redeveloped and Fort Blockhouse is expected to be released for development. A heavily secured facility for up to 600 people could harm viability of these and other nearby projects which are vital for Gosport’s economy. The expansion could generate around 774 vehicle movements each day. The Transport Assessment does not clearly show how traffic from Royal Hospital Haslar, Fort Blockhouse and other nearby developments has been considered. Such an anticipated vehicle increase will significantly impact congestion on such minor semi rural roads. The Health Needs Assessment has not been published, although the application accepts that some people would require treatment through local hospitals and other NHS services thereby impacting an already overstretched system. The application confirms that people may arrive, leave or be released at any time of the day or night. This location is within a quiet residential area. Such movements will create significant impact upon local residents and it's location is not within easy reach of local commercial amenities increasing the risk of noise and interference during unsociable hours. Immigration bail is now the most common reason for people leaving detention. The Home Office has not clearly explained how people released on bail would leave the site, whether they would be required to leave Gosport, what support would be available or what would happen if suitable accommodation was not immediately available. The Indicative Lighting Assessment appears to use Category C prison guidance because the site’s use could change in future. However, the impacts of a prison use, including staffing, visitors, traffic, security, lighting and noise, have not been assessed. The three-storey buildings were not included in the plans originally shown to residents, while important documents and drawings remain withheld or heavily redacted.