A developer renowned for constructing a 378-bed student accommodation block in Moulsecoomb is now advancing plans for an even larger facility next door. McLaren aims to replace the derelict mid-century structure at 3 Moulsecoomb Way with a modern six to ten-storey building that will house 380 student bedrooms. This new development will feature a lounge, gym, and games room on the ground floor, alongside landscaped gardens.
In compliance with the council’s planning regulations, the development will also integrate four units designated for industrial use, with half of these units available at affordable rental rates. The application, prepared by Boyer planning consultants, highlights that: “The proposals involve the redevelopment of a vacant, brownfield site in a highly sustainable location to deliver a high-quality mixed-use development comprising flexible industrial floor space and purpose-built student accommodation.”
The Planning Challenges
However, this proposal marks a notable divergence from existing council policy due to its inclusion of student accommodation on a Protected Employment Site. Nonetheless, the developers argue that the project meets several broader strategic policy objectives, with the student accommodation component offering significant public benefits. These advantages, in conjunction with a notable enhancement of the site’s employment potential, are presented as greatly outweighing the benefits of maintaining the site solely for industrial purposes.
Community and Economic Impact
The redevelopment is poised to facilitate meaningful regeneration of this underutilised site, which will not only benefit the local community but also enhance the broader area. The project includes an eight-bedroom “affordable student cluster flat” aimed at supporting disadvantaged, local, or under-represented students, thereby addressing critical needs in student accommodation.
Moreover, the design of the scheme, which has been developed over several years, is described as of “exceptional quality.” It is projected that the new development will create 36 jobs and contribute positively to the local economy through increased student numbers. Since the completion of 1 Moulsecoomb Way in 2019, the number of licensed houses of multiple occupation in the vicinity has dramatically decreased from 684 to 355, highlighting the positive impact of purpose-built student accommodation on housing availability.
Transport and Accessibility
Similar to the previous project, residents of the new block will not be entitled to resident parking permits, thereby promoting sustainable transport options. The development will feature three disabled parking bays and provide 254 cycle parking spaces to encourage cycling among students.
The application references the Brighton Gas Works appeal, demonstrating the government’s planning inspectorate’s willingness to permit an increase in housing on brownfield sites beyond what the local council had initially indicated.