A public consultation has been launched as a developer looks to build an 11-storey block of student flats that would overlook Shirley Precinct.

Cavendish and Gloucester has delivered leaflets to houses in the city district ahead of submitting a formal planning application to build accommodation for between 220 and 260 students.

The proposed block would go on brownfield land currently “lying vacant” at the junction of Victor Street and Crown Street, directly behind the precinct.

In a brochure asking residents to give their feedback, the developer said it had chosen the site based on its transport links, nearby services and proximity to University Hospital Southampton.

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Documents online said that most healthcare students are based at the hospital, which therefore makes the location perfect for those people.

An in-person consultation will be held on July 9 from 4.30pm to 7pm at The Salvation Army on Victor Street.

The leaflet said it would give Shirley residents the chance to “meet” the team behind the project in person.

But comments left on a Facebook post in a Shirley community group have already showed scepticism, with one person calling it “audacious”.

The same person said: “Construction of such a huge building will bring chaos to the surrounding streets, as the builders have to park somewhere, it's not in keeping with the area being around 7 stories higher than other blocks of flats.”

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The developer also argued that providing “purpose-built student accommodation” will meet “strong local demand” and reduce demand on the existing housing stock, “so more properties are available for local families”.

Cavendish and Gloucester said all of its developments are “bespoke”, and that the block would boast study and communal areas and secure cycle parking.

The building would be “four storeys lower” than the nearby Shirley Towers.

A spokesperson said: "This is a unique opportunity to bring new life and energy to Shirley through high-quality student accommodation that supports the University of Southampton’s School of Medicine.

"As a long-term investor in the city, we are proud to be playing an active role in its future.

"Our proposals will introduce a new student community to Victor Street and Crown Street, support local businesses through increased footfall, and enhance the public realm with new active frontages and modern design. We’re excited to continue engaging with the Council and the wider community as we shape a scheme that delivers lasting benefits for Shirley.”

London based developer Cavendish and Gloucester, previously known as Knightspur Properties according to Companies House, is also behind the “Seaview Place” development off Millbrook Road East.

Those plans, which have been recommended for approval by council officers, want to provide 170 one-bed studio flats in a 20-storey accommodation tower.