The approval of a new ten-storey student housing block in Birmingham city centre has sparked debate among city councillors, questioning the balance between student accommodation and essential housing needs.

The city's planning committee has signed off on another major student block - despite concerns over the balance between student lets and homes for residents.

Lonsdale House is set to be demolished.

In its place - a ten-storey tower with 198 student bedrooms.

The decision has sparked questions over whether Birmingham's housing priorities are in the right place.

Councillor Gareth Moore said: "We're not awash with homeless students," warning that too many valuable sites are being given over to developments the city may not need - especially when families are being priced out or pushed out altogether.

Councillor Martin Brooks agreed demand remains high near the University of Birmingham - but pointed to a trend in the city centre, where one-bed flats are effectively serving as student digs in all but name.

He argued we're building stock that suits investors more than it serves residents.

The second scheme under discussion - on Frederick Road - was refused. Officers said no formal objections were raised, but councillors felt the design didn't respect the area's heritage.

The bigger concern is that planning decisions aren't aligning with the city's long-term needs.

While officers maintain student numbers are still growing, councillors - particularly in wards like Selly Oak - say their communities are being hollowed out.

Family homes turned into HMOs, while large blocks pop up nearby, changing the feel and function of entire neighbourhoods.

This debate isn't really about students. It's about a planning system that's drifting off course - and a city appearing to trade long-term housing needs for short-term gains.