JOHN Lewis has said it has 'no plans' to turn its Basingstoke store into housing, despite announcing its intention to build 10,000 homes.

A company spokesperson told the Gazette: "We are in the process of reviewing our entire estate to identify potential locations for housing, however we have no current plans to develop our Basingstoke site."

The chain announced yesterday (Sunday, July 4) that it wanted to address the national housing shortage and support local communities by building 10,000 homes for rental over the next few years.

John Lewis has revealed that the first homes are planned for south-east England.

According to a report, 7,000 of the initial 10,000 homes would be on sites in its existing property portfolio ranging from studio flats to houses.

Earlier this year, John Lewis identified its Basingstoke branch, one of the town's flagship stores, as one of eight that were proposed for closure following the coronavirus pandemic.

And the firm confirmed last week that the Basingstoke store will close down permanently.

The Eastrop roundabout site, supported by Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council, only opened in 2015 and was purpose-built to encompass the John Lewis at home brand alongside a Waitrose superstore.

At 46,000sq ft, the building was described as a ‘partnership powerhouse’ and included a large café and restaurant, a wine bar, a juice bar, a bakery as well as ample parking and facilities for staff.

The company has not yet revealed what it intends t do with the vacant space.