Demolition set for University of Portsmouth student blocks over fears they could fall into ‘unlawful use’ if left empty

Contracts are set to tear down several blocks at the University of Portsmouth’s Langstone Campus off Locksway Road.

Sports pitches at the site will remain accessible, along with the main car park and changing facilities.

A three-storey block, QEQM Hall, and the restaurant will be demolished from Monday.

Preparations have been under way since April 23, and the campus was closed to students last year.

A university statement said: ‘The demolition site will surround the three-storey QEQM accommodation block and the student restaurant facilities.

‘The buildings are beyond economical repair and there are concerns they will be used unlawfully.

‘The main car park, sports and changing facilities will remain and stay open throughout the works.

‘A traffic management plan is being put in place by the main contractor Hughes and Salvidge and our engineering consultants Thomasons.’

Access to the newer buildings, East, West and Trust, and Barnard Tower, will remain.

The university statement added: ‘Student accommodation at Langstone campus closed on July 31, 2018 as students chose more popular and modern university halls and accommodation provided by external companies in the city centre and Southsea.

‘The demolition works are due to be completed by July 31. Plans for the future of the site will be developed, with several options being considered.’