Hundreds of new homes are to be built for Brighton University students after a major scheme was granted planning permission.
The university will build ten low-rise buildings at its Varley Halls of Residence in Coldean Lane, Brighton.
The scheme involves demolishing four existing accommodation blocks known as Ashdown, Balcombe, Chailey and Ditchling.
Preparatory work is already under way at the site.
The four old buildings are due to be replaced with nine blocks housing almost 570 students – an increase of nearly 300 places at the campus.
A tenth building known as The Hub is planned to have communal facilities including a launderette, fitness suite, restaurant, café, bar and teaching rooms.
The plans have been approved by the planning committee of Brighton and Hove City Council.
Typical Sussex construction materials such as clay tiles are intended to help the buildings blend into the woodland setting which is next to the new South Downs National Park.
As part of the planning permission, the university must spend £64,369 on sustainable transport in the area and £19,682.96 on public sports facilities.
The council requires the university to install an outdoor exercise trail and other sporting equipment.
There will be a pool of 20 communal bikes and about 200 cycle racks.
Planning committee chairman Councillor Lynda Hyde said: “The university is a crucial employer, a vital part of our economy and students add hugely to the vibrancy of the city.
“But it’s important universities can provide accommodation because they bring in lots of people.
“Halls of residence help relieve some of the competition for family-sized homes.
“We have worked hard with the university to come up with a development which suits this site and is as energy-efficient as possible.”
About time, Brighton and Hove just dont have enough properties for students. Plus it gives the responsibiliy to the uni for 1st year students.