Plans for more than 60 student digs in east Greenwich are set to be approved by councillors.

A scheme put forward last summer to bulldoze buildings in Tunnel Avenue and replace them with a four-storey block of student flats finally looks to be decided upon next week.

The site, between east Greenwich Library and a car repair centre, would be demolished by developers to make way for 61 flats – with just two car parking spaces.

The new digs would have a gym, study room and laundrette on the ground floor.

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Officers at Greenwich Council have recommended the plans be approved by councillors at a meeting next week.

In a new report, officers explain: “The proposed development is considered to be acceptable in principle, and would contribute to the borough’s stock of specialist accommodation, whilst providing accommodation for students with convenient access to multiple nearby universities, supporting the borough’s further education offer.”

As the scheme is not proposing any affordable housing, the developers have instead offered the council a £409k handout that will be used to build new affordable homes elsewhere as part of the council’s new build programme. 

The council has had some objections from neighbours concerned about a lack of light, increased noise and too many student accommodation in a small area.

Officers said: “The proposed development is considered to be acceptable in land use terms, and the provision of student accommodation in this location would support London’s higher education institutions, specifically Ravensbourne University and the University of Greenwich.

“Moreover, the creation of purpose built student accommodation would help to relieve pressure on the borough’s housing stock by reducing competition for private rented properties, thereby freeing up local family homes.”

A decision will be made next Wednesday, March 20.