The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has got the green light for the 36-acre Woolston Riverside regeneration scheme.
Southampton council has given outline approval to plans for 420,000 sq ft of commercial space and 1,510 homes on the former Vosper Thorneycroft shipyard, fronting the river Itchen.
Crest Nicholson will bring forward the residential element of the Richard Rogers-designed masterplan, which comprises three residential towers of up to 23 storeys on specially constructed “fingers” of land jutting into the river Itchen.
Dean & Dyball has been appointed to develop the commercial element – a 9.92-acre marine quarter – which will include a working quay for repair and refit of vessels, a main commercial quayside, a new pier alongside large-scale marine production facilities, offices, workshops and studios, and a Marine Trade Centre.
Construction on the £500m scheme, which also includes shops, a health centre, library and public square, is expected to begin in 2009.
SEEDA’s development projects director, Peter Cusdin, said: “Securing consent is a big step forward. It enables the regeneration plans to proceed and unlocks £10m of new SEEDA investment in site reclamation and provision of new roads and services over the next two years.
“This is a really exciting opportunity and we will be working closely with our preferred development partners, local residents and businesses to create a vibrant waterfront.”
References: EGi News 22/08/06
