
Residents in Portsmouth are being asked for their input on what they would like in a new watersports centre.
The City Council say the facility could become a central place for activities such as kiteboarding, rowing, and kayaking.
A consultation is currently underway to gather ideas and feedback on what the community wants for the centre.
The consultation seeks to discover what sports the public would like to see catered for at the site, along with what else the Council should try to incorporate. For example, would they like to see a café, a restaurant, creative studios, or even retail space for relevant businesses?
The importance of the unique natural environment is explored, with opinions sought on improving the ecology in the area, and what green features should be incorporated into any new building.
Residents will be asked about their attitudes towards historic features on the site. For example, it could enable access to the listed World War II pillbox currently hidden on the site and sensitively incorporate the World War II anti-tank defences. There is also an opportunity to provide ideas that would enhance the accessibility of the facility.
Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “It has been an ambition of the Council to provide a facility like this for many years, so it’s great news that we can start to move forward on this project.
“We have a real opportunity to create something that enhances this very unique environment, so we need to make sure we get this right. This is why we are consulting early, so we can get a clear understanding of what sports should be provided for and what other facilities should be provided in any new centre."