Oxford student scheme set for nod

Plans to build a student accommodation development on top of a Tesco store on Oxford’s Cowley Road, which would provide almost 140 units, is set to be approved.The application for 159-161 Cowley Road was put forward by Locate Developments Ltd.Under the plans, the ground floor and first floor of the building would be remodelled and four floors of student accommodation would be created.Part of the first floor would retain the retail storage and staff facilities used by Tesco.Overall, the scheme would provide 137 student beds, an associated management suite and communal facilities.The application will go before Oxford City Council’s planning committee next week (8 October 2019).Final approval is subject to the completion of a section 106 agreement which would secure almost £860,000 for affordable housing, as well as contributions towards a travel plan.A document published ahead of the meeting said the development is “acceptable in principle”.