Councillors have given the green light for talks to begin over the transfer of a landmark site in Bordon.

The Northern Gateway site could soon have new owners as East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) have identified a preferred bidder.

A recommendation to enter negotiations with the bidder was approved by the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee last month over the site on the corner of Camp Road and Station Road.

Members heard 14 parties submitted expressions of interest in the site – which includes the Eco-house, former fire station and Lloyds branch – after it was declared surplus to requirements.

An affordable housing provider was among them but later withdrew their bid due to site constraints.

Eight community groups and a workspace provider also made submissions along with four local businesses, albeit with an interest in a partial occupation of the site.

The name of the preferred bidder has been classified but it’s no secret that the Whitehill & Bordon Town Partnership were keen.