Midas Construction has started works on a 12-storey block of student accommodation in Southampton.

Situated in Cumberland Place, close to the city centre, the development will provide 527 student beds along with ground floor commercial space, a common room, management suite and ancillary buildings.

Midas is working on the project for Victoria Hall Management, who are in turn acting on behalf of RailPen, the railway industry pension fund.

Preliminary work has already started in preparation of piling work for foundations.

Midas southern region director, Peter Whitmore, said: "We are delighted to be getting under way on site on this high-profile project for Victoria Hall. Not only does it represent a significant scheme in Southampton, but it will enable us to showcase the exciting career opportunities available in the construction industry and to provide further employment opportunities."

If all goes to plan the scheme should be complete in August 2019.