AN empty office building could be transformed into hundreds of student flats if multi-million pound plans get the go ahead.

As previously reported, Kier wants to revamp the towering Capital House tower block and land next door, on the derelict site of the old East Street shopping centre.

If their proposals are given the green light at a planning panel meeting on Tuesday(April 12), flats and townhouses for 423 students could be built at the site.

The 1970s centre was torn down to make way for a Morrisons supermarket, but that plan was axed after the landowner went bust and Morrisons pulled out.

Since then the site has lain empty and derelict, but development giant Kier swooped to secure a deal for part of the site with administrators KPMG.

The firm’s plans do not affect the majority of the East Street shopping centre site, but could see a row of new townhouses thrown up along Evans Street. Behind them the giant Capital House, which used to contain offices, will be converted into flats.

As part of the plans, the Royal Oak pub would be demolished and while there is potential for a new pub on the site its future is shrouded in doubt.

There would be rooms for 423 students in the tower block and townhouses, while parts of the site could contain retail and leisure outlets and a pedestrian link between East Street and Evans Street.

Aldi is understood to be lining up a supermarket for the rest of the site, but has so far declined to comment.

Speaking after the deal for the site was secured, Gillian Scarth, senior development manager at Kier Property, said: “The redevelopment of this prime site in Southampton city centre has been eagerly anticipated since the site was cleared in 2013. It’s a great success story and we are looking forward to playing a key role in the regeneration of the city.”

Council officers have recommended that the plans be approved but several objections have been made.Associated British Ports has objected to the works along Evans Street, that could see the footpath widened and a cycleway added, that would narrow Evans Street, although they say the proposals could be “acceptable” with minor amendments.

The Southampton Commons and Parks Protection Society has objected, saying the developer has failed to discuss funding improvements in nearby Hoglands Park due to the increased use from the hundreds of students living in the new development.

City council officers say Kier will be liable to fund some improvements through the community infrastructure levy.

Four residents have objected to the plans, saying the site should be used for council housing and voicing concerns over “late night noise and rubbish arising from students”.

If the plans are approved work on the site could be completed in time for students to move in next September.