Developer adds helipad to ambitious £200m waterfront scheme

A £200m scheme to revamp Town Quay could see a helipad constructed atop a luxury hotel under updated plans put forward by the developer.

Nicholas James Group has included a helipad in its latest proposals which, if approved, would be placed on the roof of a brand-new hotel.

The 'landmark' building would also boast a gym, spa, a sky deck with a restaurant and conference rooms offering panoramic views of the city.

Two levels of parking would also be available below the nine-storey hotel which would sit within a one-mile radius of the existing ‘luxury five-star’ Harbour Hotel in Ocean Village.

If approved, the hotel building on the existing pier will come equipped with 128 bedrooms and 18 serviced apartments.

An artist's impression of the proposed Town Quay waterfront development. (Image: Nicholas James Group)

Plans for the area could also see four residential tower blocks constructed overlooking the marina creating 460 flats.

The developer also confirmed that there will be affordable and key worker housing included in the scheme.

But in its planning statement, it concluded that ‘due to the significant cost involved in land reclamation, repair and redevelopment of Town Quay Marina’, the only way to provide affordable housing would be 'via an off-site contribution’.

Only 270 residential parking spaces would be provided, as Nicholas James Group expects many of the residents not to drive.

Restaurants, cafes, and shops would also be built in the development, with an aim of creating 1,000 new jobs and delivering a ‘major economic boost’ to the city.

The plans were first announced early in 2023 and have been followed by consultations being carried out with residents and stakeholders.

The scheme received 74 per cent support from the public, with the final plans further improved to reflect the feedback provided.

READ MORE: Town Quay: 1,000 new Southampton jobs in development

Proposals also include public spaces such as boardwalks and plazas as well as a new Red Jet terminal and café.

Nicolas Roach, Chairman of the Nicolas James Group, previously said the company is "delighted with the amount of support" adding that it has helped to shape the final plans.

Should the plans be approved by civic chiefs, work could start in early 2025 and take three years to complete.