WORK is about to start on a multi-million-pound to transform a Southampton site by building almost 130 homes.
A three-year project to construct 21 houses and 107 flats on land formerly occupied by the Eastpoint Centre in Burgoyne Road, Hightown, is scheduled to begin next week.
The site was once the home of Hightown Secondary School, which closed in the early 1980s after being declared redundant by Hampshire County Council.
It was later replaced by the Eastpoint complex, which was used as a training centre for plumbers, electricians and engineers.
As reported in the Daily Echo, an application to use the site for housing was approved by the city council earlier this year.
A planning statement that accompanied the proposal said the applicants, J T Consultancy Ltd, would continue to provide training opportunities in the area using their premises at Chandler's Ford.
The statement said the redevelopment of the vacant and partly derelict land would result in activity on a site "that currently contributes nothing to the local economy".
READ MORE: Go-ahead for plan to build 128 homes on land at Burgoyne Road, Hightown
It added: "The introduction of a significant number of dwellings will initially generate notable levels of local employment through the construction process.
"Future residents will add to the local economy through expenditure at nearby shops and facilities.
"In addition to providing market housing in the area the scheme will deliver notable affordable housing in the form of social rent and intermediate housing."
Summing up, the statement said the proposed development would boast high-quality buildings and public access to open spaces.
A design and access statement that formed part of the application added: "The site is within a relatively sustainable location within walking distance of local shops. sports and recreation clubs, schools, public houses and a church.
"The adjoining area has good vehicle, cycle and public transport links into the city centre with bus stops within minutes of the site."
READ MORE: The £10m Eastpoint Centre due to close today
Changes made following the refusal of a previous application "illustrated the client’s desire to achieve consent for a development that will be considered suitable by all".
The flats and houses will be built by Hampshire Homes Ltd.
In a letter to people living nearby, it says: "As a company we are dedicated to keeping disruption to a minimum and keeping residents updated during the building process.
"We anticipate the new build to take 36 months."
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