WORK to redevelop a derelict site in Southampton could start as early as next autumn, it has been revealed.

Detailed proposals for the Toys R Us site could be finalised by the end of this year and work could begin in autumn or winter 2022.

The news comes as multi-million pound plans for 275 flats, new restaurants, cafes and shops as well as an office block were first unveiled in 2019.

City bosses said they are now working with developers “to bring forward a scheme right for the city”.

Southampton City Council said that while the exact number of new homes and quantum of other commercial accommodation is yet to be determined, the mix of uses “is likely to be similar”.

The authority also said “the parties remain committed” to any new development of the site creating a promenade from the railway station to the waterfront.

Further details are yet to be revealed but council leader Cllr Dan Fitzhenry said the authority will not be funding a new office building.

The previous administration pledged to invest £27m into a 70,000 sq.ft office building.

Cllr Fitzhenry said: “We will not be buying the offices and we will be working with commercial private partners to deliver the scheme. We will not be risking taxpayers’ money to buy the building. The previous plans were considerably risky. Our intention is working with the developer to have good quality housing but also a world class  office block funded from the private sector. ” 

Cllr Satvir Kaur, leader of the opposition, described the council’s approach as “dangerous” and “unambitious”.

She said: “It’s disappointing that the local Conservatives are relying so much on their big private developer friends to shape our city. If you give away the city’s assets to commercial partners, they will do what is best for them rather than what is best for our city.”

The city council confirmed that it retains the freehold of the site and said that the receiver acting for the creditors of Toys R Us Properties Ltd sold its leasehold interest to Packaged Living.

Southampton City Council said: “The planning application will be submitted by Packaged Living, which we understand is seeking to finalise proposals by the end of 2021. Assuming all things go to a reasonable time line and a planning permission is approved in Spring 2022, we would expect Packaged Living to target a start on site by Autumn/Winter 2022. ”

Packaged Living confirmed the timings and added : “We will be engaging with a full public consultation process shortly.”

It is anticipated that it would take two to three years to complete the scheme.