Application to replace Portswood Shopping Centre with flats

Last year it emerged that two developers were drawing up proposals to replace the two-storey Portswood Centre with a five and six-storey housing complex.

Now, developer Fusion Group and real estate company Tri7 have submitted a planning application to the city council following a public consultation.

The multi-million-pound scheme comprises 409 flats containing a total of 519 student bed spaces, plus shops on the ground floor.

Developers have submitted an application to replace Portswood Centre with student flats (Image: Corstorphine & Wright)

A planning statement that accompanies the application says the proposed development will result in the removal of unattractive buildings and secure a viable future for what it describes as an under-used site.

It adds: "The reprovision of commercial floorspace will preserve and reinforce the active frontage, which is a key characteristic of the high street’s character.

"The scale, massing and height has been refined to ensure the built form is commensurate with the character of surrounding development."

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A design and access statement says the scheme will provide much-needed student housing near the University of Southampton and revitalise a "neglected" part of Portswood.

"The design team have engaged with Southampton City Council’s design and planning officers and held extensive discussions with key stakeholders and local residents.

"At each step, the design team have sought to address feedback from consultees to ensure the resulting design is of the highest standard whilst providing a scheme which reflects and enhances the local area.

"The proposed buildings and landscape design are of the highest quality and standards, resulting in a refined and well mannered development that will sit comfortably within the local area.

"This is a development that has Portswood’s past, present, and future rooted within its design."

Developers have submitted an application to replace Portswood Centre with student flats (Image: Corstorphine & Wright)

The statement says the scheme will regenerate a key site and provide a positive contribution to the streetscape. Planting and vegetation will transform a "harsh" urban environment.

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Portswood Centre is at the junction of Portswood Road and Brookvale Road.

As reported in the Daily Echo, the building was sold to Tri7 for £10m at the start of 2024. Plans to demolish the complex and replace it with student flats were unveiled a few months later.

Speaking at the time, Fusion and Tri7 said their aim was to provide an attractive gateway at the southern end of the high street by delivering shops as well as accommodation.

"New retail spaces will be offered along Portswood Road, creating an inviting atmosphere that seamlessly integrates the development with the surrounding neighbourhood and improves the current offer."