A SOUTHAMPTON HMO that could house up to 13 young professionals could become new flats should plans be approved by civic chiefs.

Plans have been submitted to Southampton City Council to turn the 13-bed house of multiple occupations on St Mary Street into six new flats.

The apartments would include one studio flat, two two-bed flats and three one-bed flats as well as associated bin and cycle storage - six 360L wheelie bins and one cycle space per unit.

The existing property is an end of terrace corner three-storey building on the eastern side of St Marys Street at the junction with Clifford Street.

A statement within the planning documents said: "The government's and councils continued drive for greater density of housing because people want to live in urban areas and close to work needs to be balanced with quality of living space being offered as the first consideration when it comes to high density housing.

"Humans do need a certain amount of space to be active, healthy and store their belongings which we consider this scheme delivers and request the support of the planning department."

A decision is yet to be made on the plans.