Major plans for a landmark building on the former gasworks site in Southampton are set to be approved.

The proposal for the land near St Mary’s Stadium features 384 build-to-rent flats spread across four blocks ranging from eight to 17 storeys high.

Hawkstone Properties (Southampton) Ltd and SGN Place submitted the planning application for the site in Britannia Road back in 2022.

The application will be determined by Southampton City Council’s planning and rights of way panel on Tuesday, June 4, with officers recommending approval.

An officer report to the panel said: “The proposal represents a comprehensive high-density mixed-use development delivering 384 residential units and will create a high quality and distinctive gateway at the eastern edge of the city centre.

“New high-quality public realm and green spaces, including sustainable urban drainage, hedgerows, wildflower meadow, remnants of the industrial heritage and 125 additional trees, will also be provided which integrate into the overall street pattern.”

The gasholders have already been removed from the site, which was a gas works and holder station since the 1880s.

The proposed housing mix is 186 one-bed and 198 two-bed flats although there will be no affordable housing as part of the development.

There would be 176 on-site car parking spaces. Private balconies will be provided with 264 of the flats.

Residents will have a concierge alongside shared amenity spaces, including a library, gym, work or study space, and rooftop gardens.

City of Southampton Society objected to the application. The group said the site was not suitable for residential development.

It added: “Without future development of the riverside as residential accommodation, the site is isolated.

“There are no local shops, restaurants, bars or cafes to support a new community of young professionals, such as graduates, who we understand are the key clients for this development.”

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application said the scheme includes a “tall landmark building” with commercial floorspace on the ground floor.

“The landscape-led scheme will retain the industrial heritage of the site through the architectural design of the buildings and will aid with housing delivery in the Southampton city centre,” the statement said.

“The proposed scheme at Britannia Road is a build-to-rent scheme that has been specifically designed for the private rental market.”