Plans to transform the St James Centre in St Mary’s into a new student housing complex have sparked a lively debate among local stakeholders as the proposal is set to go before Southampton City Council’s planning panel for approval. The applicant, Mr Bajar, has put forward a development plan for 25 studio apartments, but the initiative faces opposition from local councillors who advocate for more affordable housing options to meet the urgent needs of the city’s residents.

Councillor Sarah Bogle, representing Bargate ward, has expressed her concerns, arguing that the proposed student accommodation does not align with the broader regeneration plans for the area. In her objection, she emphasised the need for developments that enhance social cohesion and serve the pressing demand for affordable housing. “I do not oppose redevelopment of the site but it needs to complement any other plans for regeneration and development in the area,” she stated. Fellow councillor John Noon echoed her sentiments, deeming the site unsuitable for a student block and suggesting it could better serve as a site for social housing.

Despite the opposition, the planning officer’s report ahead of the meeting recommended approval of the outline application. It noted the presence of evidence indicating a demand for student accommodation in the St Mary’s area. Furthermore, the report acknowledged that the development would alleviate pressure on housing in the city, particularly on houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), which have been a growing concern as the student population swells. The officers highlighted that while there is indeed an acute need for affordable housing in Southampton, they are mandated to assess the proposal on its own merits.

The site currently hosts a two-storey flat-roofed building that was previously used as an educational and training centre. The development plan suggests a more vibrant and functional use of the space, proposing a four-storey structure that integrates communal areas, including a laundry room and private gardens. This redesign aims not only to improve the aesthetic appeal of the area but also contribute to creating a mixed community by minimizing the burden on existing housing stock.

In a design and access statement, Kode Architecture, acting on behalf of Mr Bajar, described the proposal as “a vast improvement over what exists” and promised it would inject life into the locality. Notably, the development will not provide on-site parking for students, with designated spaces reserved primarily for staff and management. The plan also includes secure bicycle storage, promoting environmentally sustainable transport options.

This proposal is not an isolated case amid a backdrop of increased student accommodation developments in Southampton. Recent approvals have included a significant project on Hulse Road, transforming St Margaret’s House into a five-storey complex with nearly 200 bed spaces and various amenities such as gyms and social areas, reflecting the city’s commitment to addressing its student housing shortage. Another approved plan involves the conversion of the historic Dolphin Hotel into 99 student rooms, despite concerns from heritage groups about preserving the building’s historic character.

As the planning panel prepares to review Mr Bajar’s application, the ongoing dialogue about the balance between student housing development and the need for affordable accommodation continues to resonate in the community. This situation showcases the complexities of urban regeneration, where development must align with social needs and local identity in a rapidly changing environment.

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Source: Noah Wire Services