Southampton’s new direction

We were delighted that many of you could join us on Monday for our latest webinar, A new direction for Southampton, with Cllr Dan Fitzhenry, the new Leader of Southampton City Council.

Cllr Fitzhenry declared Southampton as a city that intends to be at the forefront and is open for business. The City of Culture 2025 bid and the creation of a Solent Freeport are seen as key drivers of future prosperity in Southampton by the new administration. Cllr Fitzhenry explained that both complement each other in attracting inward investment into Southampton and building international partnerships with key cities around the world. The City of Culture title creates interest in Southampton, whilst the freeport status is the technical piece that makes it attractive to business.

Cllr Fitzhenry described how he wants to reconnect Southampton residents with the water and the history of Southampton. The Mayflower Quarter Masterplan – one of the largest urban regeneration opportunities in the UK over the next 20-25 years – is the perfect opportunity for this.

Also discussed was Cllr Fitzhenry’s ambition for a ‘tall building zone’ in the city centre, as the administration looks to increase density and mixed-use in the city centre to stimulate the High Street. Indeed, the administration are looking to review height, density and mixed-use standards.