PLANS for a car park which would hold more than 100 vehicles have come under fire from residents who fear it will bring increased traffic pollution and congestion.

The proposed structure for 130 vehicles would be a stone’s throw away from a giant multi-storey car park that would tower above a Southampton school if both applications are approved.

Critics of the controversial application, by the University of Southampton, to build on land south of University Car Park, Broadlands Road, claim the scheme runs counter to the city’s Green Charter, which aims to reduce air pollution and deter car use.

Liz Batten, founder of Clean Air Southampton, said: “I’m hoping that the university, with all its engineers, air pollution specialists, psychologists and other experts can get together with the administration and come up with something more fitting for a 21st century university.”

Councillor Spiros Vassilio, who represents Swaythling on the city council, said: “I have got some concerns with it being built as it will increase pollution and traffic, but my biggest concern is with the multi-storey car park. It is almost laughable that these applications have been sent in.”

A university spokesperson said: “The Broadlands Road application will provide parking adjacent to a proposed future development on the north-east corner of our Highfield Campus – currently our ‘Broadlands’ car park site. The majority of spaces currently situated here would relocate to the planned new multi-storey parking development at Hampton Park.”

A university employee said: “I am disappointed that the university is trying to shove all of its parking out to into the community. I am also disappointed the university claims it is leading the charge with electric vehicles and it is not encouraging its staff to use

them.”

Claire Buckle, a 35-year-old Mayfield Road resident, said: “I am even more angry and I feel the university and the council should reassess the car parking situation and put it somewhere else.”

As previously reported in the Echo, protesters of all ages marched from Swaythling Primary School on April 3 to the Student Services Centre, University Road, to oppose the proposed four-deck car park for 714 vehicles next to the school.

Southampton City Council is aiming to announce the decision for 130 vehicle car park application on April 30.

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