Summary:
- Moda Living plans to redevelop the vacant Commercial Point office block in Southampton into a 707-bed student accommodation scheme, involving demolition of the existing 25-year-old building and delivering a car-free, high-quality student neighbourhood with extensive bike storage.
- The proposal faced strong local opposition citing concerns over the building’s height of 60 metres, its impact on the area’s character, and overshadowing of nearby residences, while council officers noted the site’s designation within a “tall building cluster” and acceptable daylight impact.
- Planning officers recommended approval due to Southampton’s lack of a five-year housing land supply and the inclusion of student housing in meeting housing targets, despite councillors’ reservations and community objections.
Original article:
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25339236.behemoth-student-scheme-compared-singapore-approved/
