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CROWN/2026/0000005 Sarah Akhurst

Date submitted
6 August 2026
Submitted by
Interested party

I wish to formally object to phase 2 of the proposed expansion of the immigration centre. As a local resident, I have serious concerns that this development will have a significant and lasting negative impact on the Haslar Peninsula, surrounding communities and local infrastructure. My objections are as follows: 1. The Scale, Height and impact on Heritage The proposed three-storey accommodation blocks are considerably larger than many surrounding buildings and would be out of keeping with the historic character of the Haslar Peninsula. The development would dominate nearby homes and detract from the setting of the Haslar Barracks Conservation Area, causing unacceptable harm to the area's heritage and visual appearance. 2. Traffic and Highway Safety The projected increase in vehicle movements raises concerns regarding congestion, parking, road safety and emergency access. 3.Noise and Residential Amenity The possibility of arrivals, departures and operational activity at all hours of the day and night would increase noise, lighting and disturbance for nearby residents. This would have an adverse effect on the peaceful enjoyment of neighbouring homes. 4. Regeneration of the Haslar Peninsula The Haslar Peninsula is undergoing significant regeneration, with investment intended to benefit residents, businesses and tourism. Expanding the Immigration Removal Centre risks undermining investor confidence and could discourage future regeneration opportunities that would provide long-term economic benefits for Gosport. 5. Uncertainty Regarding Future Use The application acknowledges that the site's future use could change. This uncertainty means residents cannot properly assess the long-term impacts of the proposal. Any potential future prison use should be fully assessed before permission is considered. 6. Lack of Transparency and Local Accountability I am concerned that this application is being considered through the Crown Development process rather than the normal local planning process. Given the scale and significance of the proposal, local residents deserve full transparency and meaningful involvement in decision-making. 7. House prices have already declined in the area, leaving many feeling they can't sell or won't be able to sell as people don't like the uncertainty of what the centre will bring. Conclusion For these reasons, I respectfully request that planning permission for the proposed expansion be refused. The development would have unacceptable impacts on the character of the area, local infrastructure, transport, residential amenity and future regeneration. I believe the concerns of local residents have not been adequately addressed, and the proposal is not in the best interests of Gosport or the Haslar Peninsula. Thank you for taking my comments into consideration. Yours faithfully, ██████████