Planning permission has been granted to demolish five retail units in Southampton's city centre and to turn the site into student flats.

Permission was granted to convert the site located on East Street into 100 student flats.

Under the plans, two buildings, one of which will be seven stories and the other five, will include common areas and two new retail units.

According to designers, Depth Architects, the new building will "add value" and "improve the area". The company added: "The development will enhance the experience of East Street en route to further developments at its eastern end, lift the urban design quality and create an interesting building that aids regeneration."

The proposals are one of a number of large scale developments planned for the East Street area. Kier Group are already converting a former office block into student accommodation, which once complete will create 423 student beds.

Commenting on the regeneration of the East Street area, Bargate councillor, Darren Paffey, said: "It's an area that has been looking tired and needs improvements, particularly after the council's work to improve the Holyrood Estate, which is looking great.

"This is one more piece of the plan in order to bring more people to the area."