PLANS for the redevelopment of the former Toys R Us site in Southampton have been unveiled but there has been a mixed reaction from residents.

A total of 600 flats and 60,000sqft of office space could be created at the derelict site, along with a new hotel, serviced apartments, cafes and green spaces.

A planning application is expected to be submitted to Southampton City Council following the public consultation which ends on October 10.

If approved, work at the site could begin by winter 2022.

These plans have been met with support but also backlash from Southampton residents, with some describing the proposed plans as a "nightmare."

On the Daily Echo's online article, one commenter said: "Crazy logic if you ask me.

"Congestion is typically heavy in that area, what a terrible idea sticking 600 flats there. Imagine, eight cruise ships in, Southampton FC playing at home, West Quay, IKEA traffic and 600 more flats right in the heart of it."

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Congestion was also a concern raised by another online reader: "It should have been a music venue for international acts to play in Southampton. But no, more flats, more coffee shops and no doubt more congestion in an already over-populated city centre."

One reader has criticised Southampton City Council for a lack of imagination.

In a comment on Facebook, the reader said: "Honestly Southampton City Council is all you care or can think about is flats and offices?

"Where's the imagination gone?"

However, many residents are positive about the proposed plans.

One commenter said: "High density housing with decent public transport links is actually a really good idea. We need to think beyond just driving everywhere, and the residents in these flats wouldn't need to (disability provision aside)."

Good transport links is a positive factor, according to some readers.

A reader said: "I like it and it looks great (at least on paper). It will provide some desperately needed housing for the city, and it's located such that people who live there won't need to drive.

"Probably out of my price range, but I'd happily live in one of those apartments."

Another reader agreed.

They said: "This sounds like a good plan to me. Wisely, they have catered for society's changing needs.

"With the railway station on the doorstep the apartments will be desirable for commuters. Looks like virtually no parking but 480 cycle parking spaces which is very good.

"Get on and build."