Southampton Gasworks site to be redeveloped

The homes are build to rent only. The plans propose 166 one-bed flats and 237 two-bed flats, and include provision of library and gym spaces and roof-top gardens.

A planning application is currently before Southampton City Council and the developer Hawkstone Limited have said that it was prepared and submitted after prolonged consultation with council's planning officers.

The application which was submitted earlier this month has called for major redevelopment of the site yet will retain a number of existing features. Among these are the listed façade of the old Gasworks structure which is set to remain in tribute to the heritage of the location.

The plans detail construction of four buildings: "Ranging between two and 21 storeys comprising 403 residential units including ancillary residential facilities."

The work will be conducted on what is described in the plans as an irregular patch of land directly to the north of St. Mary's Football Club Stadium.

The plans also include provision of commercial floorspace, associated access from Britannia Road, internal roads and footways, car and cycle parking (including drop off facilities), servicing, hard and soft landscaping, amenity space, sustainable drainage systems, engineering and infrastructure works.

The application, following consultation with the Council's Employment and Skills department also provides for engagement with local schools to boost employment and aspirations of such.Provision is made for: "An Employment and Skills Plan obligation will be required for this development.

"Southampton City Council is committed to enabling its residents to gain skills and progress into employment, and to enabling the citys businesses to grow and prosper through access to local talent."

Extensive ecological surveys were conducted onsite and make up part of the planning application. A reptile survey records that no such animals were seen onsite during site visits.

A decision on the plan, which has won the support of a number of city councillors, is expected later this year.

Source: The Business Magazine