A DEVELOPMENT constructing more than 1,200 student bedrooms has taken one step closer to completion after plans were approved.

The works taking place on land adjacent to Capon Way and Annan Road, in the University of Essex’s Colchester campus, will see five buildings built.

Built within these structures will be 1,204 student bedrooms arranged as cluster flats, and 58 studios, according to plans submitted by the university and Uliving.

Colchester Council has now approved the developer’s waste, landscape and flood management proposals, meaning work can continue to be completed.

Gazette: Plans - five buildings are to be constructedPlans - five buildings are to be constructed

Under the plans, a new “hub” will be created in one of the blocks to provide a reception, post room and administrative area.

The buildings will be arranged to create two undergraduate courtyards and a third neutral student space.

Bicycle parking and bin stores will all also be in place at the site, while associated hard and soft landscaping is underway.

Relevant vehicle access and turning points will be made available for road users accessing the future accommodation.

A planning report states the work is expected to be completed by September of this year.

It adds: “The university needs to deliver a minimum numbers of rooms if it is to meet its growth targets.”