Southampton: Nelson Gate given council go-ahead

Developer, asset and property management company FI Real Estate Management, has had its extensive plans to regenerate Nelson Gate unanimously approved by Southampton City Council. The ambitious mixed-use development will help transform one of the key gateways into the city.

Located by Southampton Central Station, the scheme comprises the refurbishment of existing 22,500 sq ft office space blended with a number of architecturally striking new build structures, including the creation of 148,000 sq ft of residential, 40,000 sq ft of new office space and approximately 10,000 sq ft of commercial.

The outline planning approval is for a 20-storey residential tower, containing 110 apartments, as well as commercial facilities at the ground and lower ground floor levels. Adjoining, will be an 11-storey hotel with 225 bedrooms.

Detailed planning permission was also granted to enhance the office facilities on the site. The approved plans will allow for the provision of new Grade A office space to be built, incorporating a roof terrace for use by office tenants, as well as the refurbishment of existing office buildings.

The planning application for the redevelopment of Nelson Gate was submitted after a consultation event earlier this year which gained strong support from residents and local stakeholders.

A spokesperson for FI Real Estate Management said: “We are delighted that our plans have been approved and that we can now embark on bringing this fantastic scheme to life. We know that this development, from construction right through to occupancy, will create a wealth of new jobs for local people. Upon completion, Nelson Gate will also bring new residents, businesses and visitors to the city centre.

“Our designs also respect the significance and importance of this site, the view of which welcomes millions of rail travellers every year as they pull into the city. We know this is the start of an exciting new chapter for Southampton and want to thank everyone who has been involved in the process to date.”

The scheme has been designed by Ellis Williams Architects and planning consultants WYG.