PBSA developer and operator Downing has been given the go ahead by Lewes District Council to deliver a 555-bedroom student accommodation development, on a site near Brighton’s Amex Stadium.

The site is situated on the former Bennett’s field car park and the new development will see the construction of two six-storey linear wings, with an interlocking two-storey central social hub, playing host to 555 new high quality student bedrooms.

The accommodation will be split into 130 luxury, self-contained studio apartments, 397 student cluster rooms, 18 accessible studios and 10 accessible cluster rooms.

Martin Fenlon, Associate Projects Director at Downing, said: "We are delighted that planning has been granted for this new development. This will not only relieve pressure on the existing stock of student accommodation but housing provision in the surrounding areas.

"We intend to work closely with local Higher Education providers to ensure the new accommodation will meet the long-term needs of its student population, whilst also benefiting the wider community. In line with our commitment to sustainability, the scheme will be delivered to a BREEAM Excellent standard."

Other features in the completed development will include a roof terrace, state-of-the-art gym, cinema, games room, private dining rooms as well as generous study, breakout and social spaces.

Construction work will include hard and soft landscaping and an outdoor space for activities including yoga and a trim trail path.

It will also be a car-free development with the exception of accessible parking bays – with electric vehicle charging points – and student drop off areas. Instead, 300 new secure indoor cycle storage spaces will be delivered.