THE firm behind multi-million pound plans to bring hundreds jobs to Southampton at a riverside development has handed in plans to build on another key site in the city.

Just a day after city council chiefs inked a deal with Inland Homes to create a new business and housing complex at Chapel Riverside, the firm has submitted plans to overhaul the former Meridian television studios.

The firm unveiled its proposals to build 350 homes, a convenience store and a new park on the site north of the Northam Bridge earlier this year.

And it has now formally submitted plans for the £40million Meridian Gardens scheme to the city council.

If they are given the green light construction work could begin next summer.

Yesterday the Daily Echo revealed Inland Homes’ plans for Chapel Riverside, formerly Town Depot (to see the vision click here)

Daily Echo:

The company has been formally appointed by Labour council bosses to deliver a riverside district which will contain 350 homes and a new public park.

The site will also have up to 65,000 sq m of marine business space which could lead to the creation of up to 700 jobs, while flood defences at the site will be reinforced.

Consultation on proposals will begin next year, while plans could be handed in in 2016 and work could begin the following year.

Mark Gilpin, Inland Homes’ planning director said: “Inland Homes have been working hard on the proposals for the former Meridian studios site on the River Itchen.

“These proposals have now been submitted to the city council and we are looking forward to continuing our work in Southampton.

“Inland Homes are committed to the local area and will work with the council and the local community throughout the development of the proposals for Chapel Riverside.”

City politicians and business leaders have welcomed the Chapel Riverside deal, with Labour Itchen MP John Denham saying: “This is good news for the city and will help long-term plans to open up the waterfront.”

And council Cabinet member for housing Warwick Payne said: “Potentially this is a double win.

“It will not only bring in some much-needed housing to the city centre, but it is an opportunity to bolster the flood defences on the River Itchen.”