“Shop looses 20% of takings as Portswood development scheme stalls” (article Daily Echo, 18 April 2026) HRA is quoted here

“Members of Highfield Residents Association (HRA), who strongly opposed the student flats development, said the community had been left with a “prominent and depressing eyesore” which could become a “complete white elephant”.

The group said it supported the concept of renewing the district centre but without an up to date council policy on commerce, transport and student accommodation needed, it looked like this revival may never happen.

Dr Roger Brown, chairman of HRA, said: “HRA is very disappointed at yet further blight on the Broadway but hopes that the council as the planning authority can find a way of retrieving the situation.” ”