South Stoneham Tower in Swaythling to be demolished

Southampton City Council have approved the demolition of South Stoneham Tower in Swaythling, which is owned by the University of Southampton.

2 Nov 2016 - Photo Stuart Martin - South Stoneham House and surrounding buildings in Wessex Lane which are boarded up and covered in scaffolding.

The 1960s Wessex Lane tower block sits on the site of the historic South Stoneham House, an 18th century grade II listed mansion which has also been left abandoned.

• Southampton University spends £100k year on scaffolding at derelict tower block

The building was used as student residences but has been left empty since 2009 following structural concerns, with the university reportedly spending over £100,000 a year since 2012 to maintain scaffolding around it.

2 Nov 2016 - Photo Stuart Martin - South Stoneham House and surrounding buildings in Wessex Lane which are boarded up and covered in scaffolding.

In 2017, local councillor Sharon Mintoff described the building as “unsightly” and on Thursday Labour Councillor for Swaythling, Lorna Fielker welcomed the decision to knock down the 16 storey block.

Counicllor Lorna Fielker

She said: “Residents have had to live in the shadow of an empty, shrouded building for a long time.

“I understand that following demolition, the University plan to refurbish and repurpose South Stoneham House and grounds with replacement student accommodation, which they have will be more in keeping with its distinctive setting.

“I look forward to seeing their proposals when they consult with the local community.”

Planning documents state that developers Allies and Morrison were commissioned by the university in 2019 to help plan a ‘student village’ on the site including accommodation, though this has not yet been approved.

A spokesperson for the University of Southampton said: “The University has been exploring a number of options for the South Stoneham site in recent years and recently hosted an online public consultation and exhibition on the planned demolition of the site’s 1960s buildings ahead of its re-development.

“Our vision is to re-establish the site as part of the Wessex Halls of Residence Campus, whilst maintaining and restoring the Grade II listed Manor House and grounds.

“We feel these current plans will breathe new life into the site which has been needed for some time.”

The demolition is planned for Spring 2021.