Unite Students lodges plans to redevelop Soton accommodation block, adding 250 beds

Plans have been submitted to redevelop Mercury Point on Duke Street, Southampton, delivering 810 beds across two blocks.

The accommodation is managed by Unite Students, which considered various options for the 560-bed property.

If plans are approved, the building would close to students from Summer 2025 following the end of the academic year.

Tom Brewerton, group development director for Unite Students, said: “We’re excited about the planned redevelopment works at one of our key properties in Southampton as we work to continuously improve the student experience across our portfolio.

“We’ve worked closely in consultation with the council, the local community and Southampton University to develop these plans.

“We’re trusted by parents, students and universities to provide high-quality, safe and affordable accommodation, and the planned increase in bed numbers will help free up privately rented homes in the city for families.”

The scheme will target a BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainability, with solar panels, air source heat pumps and high-performance glazing.

Unite Students also plans to achieve net zero carbon emissions during both construction and operation.