Policy information sourced from Lewisham Town Centre Local Plan

LTC13 Student Housing

The Council will, in principle, support the provision of student accommodation within the town centre, providing that the development does not:

  • cause a net loss of permanent selfcontained homes, employment space or other town centre uses that add to its vitality or viability,
  • prejudice the Council’s ability to meet the London Plan target for delivery of self-contained homes or,
  • involve the loss of sites that are considered especially suitable for affordable housing.

Further, student accommodation will be required to:

  • provide a high quality living environment in private and shared spaces and comply with all relevant national and local standards and codes, including BREEAM and ANUK,
  • include a range of unit sizes and layouts, including with and without shared facilities, as appropriate,
  • contribute to the establishment of a mixed and inclusive community and does not create an over-concentration of student housing,
  • be needed by and easily accessible to the higher education institution/s it will serve using public transport,
  • have a positive affect on the existing and emerging environment of the site, Policy Area and town centre as a whole,
  • demonstrate it is suitable for year round occupation and that it has long term adaptability and sustainability.

For more information please see the Local Plan