Could Kingston's Old London Road be the best student living location ever?

Up to 60 students could move into Old London Road if an application for a new block of flats is approved.

The five-storey building would stand at the end of Kingston’s oldest shopping street, opposite the Wilkinson store.

The planning application includes the demolition of the Little Italy restaurant building, though the new plan would make room for a restaurant.

Planning consultants CgMs asked people living nearby what they thought of the plans, and handed out 150 leaflets in August.

One resident who filled in a form said: “Many residents in Old London Road are already inconvenienced and sleep deprived due to the Oceana nightclub’s patrons.

“Student accommodation would only add to the noise.”

Another said: “There are far too many students (so called) living in Kingston as it is. They don’t bring any economic or environment benefit to Kingston whatsoever.”

The end of Old London Road as it currently looks

But others agreed the building would improve the area’s “streetscape”.

Brian Godding, planning secretary for the Kingston Society, said: “We think the building should be a uniform building all round the three elevations.

“We think that corner is worthy of a more uniform building.”

A CgMs report said the building would be a gateway development enhancing the town centre, and would provide a safe living environment for students.

It said: “The area around the site is bohemian in character and therefore well suited for students.”

Management company Fresh Student Living said any complaints would be treated seriously.

The company already manages the Quebec House student flats opposite Kingston station, where rooms start at £229 a week.

The new building would include a green roof and communal roof terrace.

Previous plans called for an eight-storey building, but these were revised after the council raised concerns.

MORE KINGSTON NEWS