Planning officers say Oxford Brookes University should not be allowed to expand unless it agrees to house the bulk of its new students in purpose-built accommodation.

The Headington-based university is planning a period of growth that could see student numbers increase at the rate of up to one per cent a year -- resulting in an extra 1,826 full-time and 746 part-time students over the next 15 years. As the university grows, staff numbers are also expected to increase from 2,200 to up to 3,700.

But in a draft issues paper for its local plan review, Oxford City Council suggests that student increases should be linked to the university's provision of new purpose-built accommodation.

The council currently insists that the number of students living outside university accommodation does not exceed 4,000.

A report by planning officers Steve Pickles and Georgina Harrison said: "The students who are not currently in purpose-built accommodation compete for residential housing stock in the area.

"This causes serious pressure on an already scarce commodity, especially in Headington and east Oxford.

"The council has little control over this situation, as many student households consist of six or less students sharing accommodation which does not require planning permission.

"This will clearly get worse unless further increases in student numbers are matched by an increase in purpose-built accommodation."

Mr Pickles added: "An increase in student numbers could reduce the supply of housing, push up prices, and force residents to look for accommodation outside the city. That is what we are seeking to avoid."

Oxford Brookes University spokesman Gill Sanders said: "We fully understand the concerns of local people about pressure on housing. We are working very hard to reduce the existing burden and will continue to do that in the future."

The issues paper will go out to consultation and could be included in the Oxford Local Plan, which covers development in the city between now and 2016.

The council has invited the public to comment on its plans by February 12. Mr Pickles said: "We are anxious to hear from as many people as possible.

"We want Oxford Brookes University and the public to comment so we can look at their ideas and suggestions and find an acceptable way forward."