An excavator was out clearing overgrowth in preparation for reopening a corner of the car park, though no work was taking place on the derelict building itself.
Southampton Councillor Sarah Bogle says that this clearance is the “very first stage” for developing the site, though a planning application for the building is still in the works.
She added: “We have been through quite a lot of stages, securing a really good partnership agreement.
“We have started to explore the options, and we’re getting some people in to do some clearance.
“I know that there’s a huge interest in this site. It seems to be a very symbolic site in terms of regeneration in the city.
“A planning application is still to come.
“This is something we have wanted to see progress there.”
Despite stalled development plans since it closed in 2018, a renewed plan to redevelop the site was announced in January by Southampton City Council, Aviva Capital Partners and the University of Southampton.
Derelict Toys R Us in Southampton (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)
The initial plans are to start with interim uses or consider demolition in 2026.
Located next to Southampton Central railway station, the 4.6-acre plot will become an innovation-led mixed-use neighbourhood, as a key part of the West Bay Innovation District plans and the delivery of the Southampton Renaissance Vision.
It is expected that a new 250-year lease will be set up for the site.
Derelict Toys R Us in Southampton (Image: Cristiano Magaglio)
The car park of the site is currently being used as a busy 24-hour car park.
A sign on the building still advertises the “Maritime Gateway” redevelopment that had been approved in 2022, but stalled with the developer citing “macroeconomic issues” like inflation and interest rates.
Stories has been appointed as development manager for the latest project.