WORK on a multi-million-pound scheme that will change Southampton city centre's skyline could begin in the new year.

The 15-storey building, dubbed Mayflower Plaza, has been given the go-ahead by city planners.

The tower block (artist's impression pictured) will have offices, flats and two restaurants and stand at the junction of Commercial Road, West Park Road and Havelock Road.

There will be a total of 196 one, two and three-bedroom flats, more than a quarter of which will be affordable homes for key workers such as nurses and teachers.

There will also be an eight-storey office block in Commercial Road and parking for 214 cars.

Planning panel chairman Councillor June Bridle said the design was one that future generations would be able to enjoy.

Some questions were raised about the height of the building and the shadow it would cast over Watts Park.

But Councillor Alec Samuels, said: "It is time we got something on this site. It's a bit ad-hoc and it's a pity the city council doesn't have a plan for the area."

The application was made by Clerical Medical Investments Ltd.

Tim Tither-idge, representing the developers, said they wanted work to start as soon as possible.

He said: "Subject to economic developments we will start the development. There has already been interest in both the office and residential schemes."