A revised major redevelopment, on historically sensitive land near the centre of Southampton, was finally okayed by planners last night.

Tellon Capital’s Barfield Quarter scheme involved the demolition of a shopping centre five years ago and an archaeological dig around the city’s Old Town Walls which will be completed this year.

Tellon’s initial idea to incorporate a hotel into the project was scrapped in favour of more housing and now work on constructing 519 flats and townhouses, plus 2,515sqm of commercial space, is due to start in the autumn.

James Burchell, Partner at Tellon Capital, said: “We are delighted to receive unanimous planning permission for the Bargatere Quarter rejuvenation, and this means we are now able to confirm a date when construction will begin.

“This is a complex scheme, especially given the site’s history and heritage, but Tellon is committed to making this significant rejuvenation a reality.”

The plans, designed by Macgregor Smith and Corstorphine and Wright, previously had 287 residential units and has reduced the retail capacity from 7,343sqm to 2515sqm.