Planned Demolitions for Student Housing Increase Capacity in London, Southampton

Housing association Abri plans to demolish the Hambleden and Hurley Courts in Woodmere, Bracknell, to redevelop the site into 106 homes after discovering structural issues with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). The new development aims to provide social and affordable housing, increasing the number of homes from 72, and will feature gas-free designs and improved facilities. In London, plans to replace a petrol station on the Albert Embankment with two student accommodation towers have been supported in principle by City Hall, promising 769 rooms and enhanced local services. Meanwhile, in Southampton, Mercury Point will be demolished due to fire safety concerns, with plans for a new 21-storey building that will accommodate 783 students, addressing serious structural issues not recognized upon its initial purchase. Both developments reflect a broader trend of addressing safety and housing needs while enhancing urban infrastructure. Local consultations and council approvals are underway to finalize these significant housing projects.