New halls of residence for University of Southampton

A new halls of residence is to be built in Southampton.

The University of Southampton has awarded construction company Osborne the contract to build the new Chamberlain Halls of residence.

An artists’ impression of the Chamberlain Halls (from Glen Eyre Road)

The new 356-bed development will replace the old Chamberlain Hall, constructed in 1958, which has been retired from use as student accommodation since Summer 2011.

It is hoped the development, which will also include a “new and improved on-site bus stop for the University’s Uni-link bus services” will reduce demand for private rented accommodation.

Osborne, the construction group who have been awarded the £20m contract, last year completed the much-criticised Mayflower Halls.

Nicky Passmore, director of Student Services for the University, said:

The re-development of the Chamberlain hall site forms an important part of our work to invest in and enhance the student experience at Southampton. Being so close to our main campus at Highfield, we expect the new Chamberlain Halls to be a popular choice for students when choosing where to live.

The halls are due to open in August 2016.

What do you think? Much-needed extra space, or pointlessly overcrowding Glen Eyre? Let us know in the comments!