Kappa Maritime & Estates has submitted plans to Southampton City Council’s planning department for an 80-bedroom purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme at 264 and 266 Portswood Road in Southampton.
The PBSA block would regenerate a long-derelict brownfield site which was previously home to a pub and furnishing business. The proposals involve the demolition of the Waggoners Arms pub building and former Burts Furnishing premises.
The 19th century Waggoners Arms building has been vacant since the pub closed down in 2018. Kappa Maritime & Estates submitted a separate application for the demolition of the buildings earlier this year. Council officers are still considering this request after the public consultation closed in late April.
“It [the scheme] involves the regeneration of a long-derelict, brownfield site within an established settlement boundary, delivering much-needed PBSA to meet a clear and growing need.”
Planning Statement, Rok Planning
A design and access statement submitted on behalf of the applicant by Ridge and Partners LLP said the site was in a sustainable location with public transport links, cycle routes and proximity to the main university campus and local district centre.
The statement said the proposed building had been designed in a way that allowed it to be adaptable from student housing to private apartments for future-proofing if required. Floor plans show studios could be combined to create various one- and two-bedroom apartments in line with nationally described space standards.
“This adaptable design not only safeguards the long-term value of the investment but also ensures that the scheme continues to enhance the character and visual appeal of Portswood Road over time if its use needs to change for any reason.”
Design and Access Statement, Ridge and Partners LLP
