Press Release

20 February 2026

Fareham unveils bold £125m vision to transform town centre

Fareham is set for a major transformation as Fareham Borough Council moves forward with the next stage of design for its ambitious £125 million Town Centre Masterplan – a landmark investment that will reshape the heart of the town for generations to come.

The masterplan sets out a clear and compelling vision for a busier and greener town centre that is easier to move around and feels safe, welcoming and loved. Major investment is planned to create a refreshed and attractive shopping centre with fewer empty shops and more places to eat. New and improved public spaces will be introduced, and better walking routes provided between West Street, Fareham Live and the Civic Gardens. With new homes planned for, and a growing calendar of events, the town will become a bustling community that is welcoming, safe and easy to get to.

Extensive work has already taken place to shape proposals that are both ambitious and deliverable, informed by feedback from residents and businesses. This conversation will continue, with public exhibitions planned for 12 and 14 March, giving the community the opportunity to see the proposals and share their views as the plans develop.

At the heart of the masterplan is a strong commitment to protecting and enhancing essential local services. Key facilities will remain firmly within the town centre, alongside investment in modern, flexible spaces that support community life now and into the future.

Cllr Simon Martin, Leader of Fareham Borough Council, said: “This is a major milestone in our plans to regenerate Fareham town centre. With around £125 million of investment, we are setting out an exciting, achievable vision for the future – reshaping the shopping centre, delivering up to 200 new homes, introducing exceptional public spaces, including a new town square, creating safer routes and improving parking.

“This investment will significantly broaden what Fareham has to offer. It will bring better leisure and recreation opportunities, improved shops, high-quality public spaces and strong, modern community services.

“I want to be absolutely clear that our mission is for the key facilities, including the library and health centre, will remain in the heart of the town centre. As regeneration progresses, some services may move into newer, more modern spaces, but they will continue to be central, accessible and convenient for everyone.

“Ultimately, this is about creating a town centre that works better for everyone – somewhere people are proud to visit, work in and call home.”

Public exhibitions will take place in the former Clarks store in Fareham Shopping Centre from 4pm-7pm on Thursday 12 March and 10am – 2pm on Saturday 14 March.

Further public engagement is planned for summer 2026, ahead of the submission of an outline planning application, as the Council continues to work with the community to shape a bold and positive future for Fareham town centre.

Fareham Town Centre Regeneration is a key project set out in Priority Four of the Council’s Corporate Strategy: promote economic development.

Read the Council's masterplan design progress report.

ENDS