The long derelict Debenhams building in Portsmouth city centre could finally be demolished next year as plans for hundreds of new homes move forward.
The proposal, which received outline approval in March this year, would see the derelict department store demolished to make way for three towers containing 724 homes.
Building A would provide 222 flats alongside commercial space, lounges, a cinema and gym. Building B would offer up to 144 rental flats, while Building C would have up to 358 co-living units with shared amenities including lounges, co-working spaces, a gym and bar.
Local town planner Phil Salmon, who submitted the plans on behalf of Xanadu Ltd, said he was in discussions with Portsmouth City Council to complete the Section 106 agreement, which will enable the planning permission to be formally granted.
“Once issued, the transfer of ownership of the site will be completed for the developer to commence the scheme, in accordance with the approved plans.
“Work continues in the background in terms of discussions with prospective occupiers of some of the co living accommodation including the Ministry of Defence and the NHS.”
He added that a reserved matters application would be submitted by the end of the year, with formal commencement “through demolition of the building in early 2027”.
Councillor Hugh Mason, cabinet member for planning policy and city development, said: “Something has to be done with the site and as soon as possible.
“The general idea for the site which has been brought forward by the developers is interesting and should be the basis of a detailed planning application.
“As with any large project, the devil is in the detail when it comes to planning.”
He said Commercial Road would be better off without the current Debenhams building, as well as the “frontage of Arundel Street”.
“I think they’ve done their best to keep it secure but certainly it is not pretty,” he added.
He expressed enthusiasm for the co-living spaces, which he thinks would “have a good market” in Portsmouth.
Cllr Gerald Vernon Jackson said that “everybody would be pleased to get something that actually works on the Debenhams site”, and that he hoped it would improve Commercial Road and be economically viable.
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