RESIDENTS are fuming over a proposal to build 400 student flats, saying the development would bring more pollution.

McLaren Property is proposing student housing at number one Moulsecoomb Way, Brighton.

The development would be within walking distance of both the University of Brighton and Sussex University campuses.

On its website, the company said: “Plans are still evolving, but they currently include the provision of 400 student bedrooms in purpose-built accommodation, more than 1,000 square metres of employment space as part of supporting the local economy, and 242 square metres of community space to allow public use of the development.”

The development will be on a site currently occupied by a waste management facility, Kingspan, which is still operating. 

McLaren Property has said that it would provide regeneration of the area and benefit the community. However, not everyone agrees with the proposals.

Christopher Bishop, who lives in Hillside, said: “Residents are very worried about these new proposals. There are already other developments happening in Moulsecoomb like the eight-floor block of flats in Selsfield Drive.

"If the flats are for 400 students, then I wonder how high the building would be? The developer has distributed leaflets saying there will be an open meeting and I know I will be going. My concern is the environmental impact it may have. If there are 400 student bedrooms, there could be hundreds of cars which will cause congestion.

“Moulsecoomb Way is already a very busy area, there’s a leisure centre and an industrial centre so I don’t think this development is a good idea.”

Residents are already frustrated about other major developments that are happening the area. Developers have started work on the Preston Barracks project, which will see 555 new private student accommodation.

Jo Barnes, 68, of Hodshrove Road, said: “There are already several developments happening in the area.

“I heard the proposed student accommodation will be at the site of the old recycling centre. The recycling centre was so smelly, and it must have been so horrendous for those who lived near it.

“When we heard it stopped operating, we were very pleased. But then here are these proposals for a new student accommodation.

“There is disabled housing and and a school nearby so I don’t think student flats are appropriate. If they are going to build flats, I think it should be for low income families because they should be the priority.”

A spokesman for McLaren Property said: “McLaren Property are bringing forward plans for a mixed use scheme that incorporates much needed student accommodation, employment and community space on the site at One Moulsecoomb Way.

"We encourage everybody in the local community to come and see the plans at our public exhibition. We are committed to engaging with local residents, community groups and businesses.

"Taking on board and responding to their feedback is a key component in how we intend to take these plans forward, shape regeneration that will enhance the local community, and ensure that we are a considerate neighbour.”

McLaren is holding a public exhibition on Thursday, January 24, from 4pm to 8pm at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, in Moulsecoomb Way.