Objections to new student accommodation plans in Selly Oak

An ex-serviceman’s club in Selly Oak looks set to be replaced by the latest student housing development – despite protests from frustrated locals.

An application is due to go before the council’s planning committee tomorrow (Thursday, December 9) to have both the ex-servicemen’s club and 133 Dawlish Road demolished and replaced with a 182-bedroom student block.

Part three and part five storeys, the new block would house varying sizes of studio apartments as well as a communal lounge, a gym, a yoga studio and a pilates room.

However the application has been met with objections from local residents, many of whom feel that the rate of construction of student accommodation in Selly Oak is unsustainable.

CGI images show the apartments as they would stand if permission is granted, with the building ranging in height from three to five storeys.

The council has recommended that the application be approved at the meeting, despite receiving seven letters of objection from local residents.

What issues are the residents objecting to?

Issues raised by residents include a fear of increased noise, litter and antisocial behaviour, increased pressure on public services, that there is already too much student accommodation in the area, increased traffic and congestion and safety concerns for pedestrians.

What has the council said about the development?

However, writing in the report, a council officer says: “I consider the development of this site for purpose built student accommodation would be acceptable in principle, given this is a brownfield site in a highly sustainable location within walking distance of the University of Birmingham campus.

“The siting, scale and appearance of the proposed development would be acceptable and would sit comfortably in the street scene. There would be no adverse impact on the amenity of neighbouring residential occupiers and the development would provide an acceptable living environment for future occupiers.

“The proposal would support the function of the University of Birmingham as a key provider of employment, culture, and learning in the city. Therefore I consider the proposal would constitute sustainable development and I recommend that planning permission is granted.”

A decision will be made on the application on December 9.

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