Southampton: Plans for 397 studio flats on Royal Crescent Road

The redevelopment of the former Olleco site on Royal Crescent Road could see the construction of a block of flats as well as a new cafe, co-working space and a gym.

The plans include 397 private studio rooms and have been submitted by Infinite Living (Southampton) Ltd who call the shared facilities 'co-living'.

Residents would have their own studio rooms but share workspaces and social areas.

There will also be a "substantial" roof terrace on the fifth floor and an external courtyard on the ground floor. 

In a statement, Infinite said the building will "offer an affordable option for people looking to stay and live and work in this vibrant city".

It added: "As the owner operator of this development, we are excited to create a long lasting, positive relationship with the city, become an active part of the community and work with and support our neighbours in creating further opportunities to enhance their lives and further promote the potential of Southampton.”

• READ MORE: 456-bed student block in Southampton could be built on plot of land on market for £5.9m

Developers say that each studio flat will cost £845 a month. They say the average monthly living cost for a one-bed studio flat in the city is typically £1,200.

If approved, the development will be car-free with bosses hoping residents will use more sustainable travel.

The plans claim that the "car-free status of the proposal means that there will be no adverse traffic impact".

The space under Central Bridge will be used for cycle space and flexible community retail spaces to "support local businesses and new start-up enterprises".

In October 2020, plans were approved to redevelop the site and create a six to 11-storey building to provide 456 student bedrooms.

The new scheme has been described as "collective and holistic" by the developers, with plans to create an inviting community space around Central Bridge that includes landscaping and planting.

The plans state that the former Olleco site will be demolished to make way for the new development, should the proposals be approved by Southampton City Council.

The studio flats will be aimed at "the young profession demographic", according to the plans. 

"It is a reality that housing options for this demographic are acutely limited and in many cases," the planning statement says. 

"Cities find themselves losing postgraduates to other cities with more attractive and affordable housing options."

Residents will find themselves sharing facilities such as a kitchen area, a living area, and a laundry room. 

Four room types will comprise the 397 rooms which will be 245 rooms at 18.5msq, 77 rooms at 20msq, 55 rooms at 24msq, and 20 rooms at 27msq. 

Southampton City Council is yet to make a decision on the plans.