Major South London Development Poised for Green Light
Southwark Council's Planning Committee is poised to grant approval for two significant construction projects in South London that will deliver nearly 500 student beds alongside family-sized social housing. The meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, is expected to give the green light to applications from Summix OCS Developments Ltd for developments on Ossory Road and Verney Road near Old Kent Road.
Student Accommodation with Extensive Amenities
The student housing component consists of two separate blocks rising 12 and 13 storeys respectively on Ossory Road, providing a total of 465 beds with views overlooking Burgess Park. These buildings will replace existing structures at 2-10 Ossory Road and 14-22 Ossory Road through demolition.
The student facilities will be comprehensive, featuring a cinema space, laundry facilities, fitness gym, games rooms, dedicated study areas, bookable dining spaces, and a reading lounge. Additionally, the development will provide 2,466 square meters of commercial floorspace, creating potential for retail or office use.
Family-Focused Social Housing Development
On Verney Road, Credon House at number 72 will be demolished to make way for a 14-storey building containing 26 social rented homes specifically designed for families. The housing mix includes 23 four-bedroom units and 3 two-bedroom wheelchair accessible apartments.
Community spaces form a significant part of this development, with a 118 square meter communal garden planned for a roof terrace offering panoramic views toward the south, east, and Burgess Park. Additional children's play areas totaling 166 square meters will be distributed throughout the residential development, including a 71 square meter roof terrace play space.
Public Consultation and Planning Considerations
Both applications underwent public consultation processes, receiving mixed responses from local residents. The student accommodation proposals garnered 29 objections alongside one neutral comment, with critics describing the building designs as "generic and characterless" and expressing concerns about pressure on public services and infrastructure.
The social housing plans faced 23 objections and three neutral comments, primarily focused on building height with suggestions that "seven stories would be more appropriate." Additional concerns addressed potential pollution and disruption during the construction period.
Planning officers have addressed these concerns by noting that the 465 student rooms effectively represent the delivery of 186 homes, which will help alleviate pressure on the local private rental market by freeing up housing that would otherwise be occupied by students. They have characterized both developments as "high quality" and recommended approval.
Strategic Impact on Local Housing
This dual development represents a strategic approach to addressing multiple housing needs in South London. The student accommodation aims to serve the growing educational population while potentially reducing competition in the private rental market, while the social housing component directly addresses the critical need for family-sized affordable homes in the area.
The location near Old Kent Road positions these developments within an area undergoing significant transformation, with the Burgess Park proximity offering recreational benefits for both student and family residents. The commercial floorspace included in the student blocks may also contribute to local economic activity and services.
