PLANS have been unveiled for 34 short-stay apartments in a four-storey block at former offices in Southampton.

The proposals have been submitted to Southampton City Council for the scheme in Winchester Road opposite the Hollybrook roundabout.

But the plans have been met with concerns from nearby residents who are worried about parking and whether it will be in keeping with the area.

Sabre Commercial Investments Ltd's scheme would include office space, a function room and cafe.

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The so-called apart-hotel would provide short-stay, professional-let studios aimed at families, students and guests of the University of Southampton, and guests and staff for nearby hospitals.

They would be available to rent for up to six months.

The plans state that this will "address the underlying need for high-quality, affordable accommodation for varying overnight visitor categories in Southampton, namely families, friendship groups, students, professionals and business travel".

Developers believe the application will provide an "opportunity to bring forward significant investment into this under-utilised site", adding the development will be "modern and high quality".

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However, residents have objected to the plans raising concerns about parking as there are plans for just three parking spaces.

In an open letter to the council, Lorraine Hodgson, of Warwick Road, said: "The proposed development is out of keeping with the area. If this is a commercial hotel venture then why will there be only three parking spaces for a 34-room building?

"There is already an issue with on-street parking due to residential areas being used by NHS staff, those working in the large stores on Winchester Road, as well as by staff working in the local businesses."

Tim Carey, of Cowdray Close, said: "A 34-room development needs more than three parking spaces.

"That is not enough for staff let alone guests. There is limited parking for the shops in Winchester Road as it is."

He added: "This will kill business as people will go elsewhere."

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