Gosport Borough Council’s leader has hailed the resurgence of the High Street, with new shops and businesses helping to draw in visitors.

McDonald’s is returning with a new 48-seat restaurant opening soon in the former Burton clothing store. Bonmarché opened its new women’s clothing store earlier this year, and Wetherspoons recently reopened after a £1m refurbishment.

Alongside the big chains, small independent shops have joined the High Street resurgence – Lara Rose Beauty, The Yoga Being, Blakes café, SMD Computers, Bernards Estate Agents, The Spud Factory, Beat Burgers, Christies Nails and P&Js cash and carry among the welcome arrivals.

The rebranded YourSpace, Gosport offers free co-working, internet access, employment support and digital skills training.

And plans have been approved to turn the old Conservative Club into a bar and lounge, further increasing footfall and boosting the evening economy.

Gosport Leader Cllr Peter Chegwyn said: Walking through the town it really feels like new life has been breathed into our high street. Like nearly every town centre, we’ve experienced many difficult years of shops closing and units staying empty.

“But big names like McDonald’s returning alongside many local independents is a real sign of a major resurgence for Gosport, which is good news for businesses, our local economy and for shoppers.

Every Tuesday and Saturday there’s a traditional high street market, selling everything from fruit and veg, meat, eggs, plants, jewellery and clothing. Plus there’s a popular bespoke market held on the last Saturday of the month, offering free music and entertainment.

It’s helped bring in average Saturday footfall of around 19,000.

On Saturday 28 June there’s a special Armed Forces Day market from 10am – 4pm to celebrate service men and women, featuring armed forces performers and military-themed stalls and activities.