AN £8m scheme for affordable housing and flats for overseas students has been recommended for approval in Oxford city centre.

A2 Dominion Homes wants to redevelop Luther Court, off Thames Street, providing 42 affordable homes and 82 rooms for foreign students at Bellerby’s College.

The scheme, set to go before councillors for a decision next Wednesday, prompted concerns because of the development’s proximity to the night shelter at O’Hanlon House.

Laurinda Hornblow, an area director for A2Dominion, said: “We recognise there have been issues with antisocial behaviour in the area, and the development has been carefully designed to help address these issues.

“For example, during the design process we worked closely with local police to incorporate principles from their flagship Secured by Design initiative which aims to ‘design out crime’ to create secure, quality places to live.

“One feature of the new development will be access to the new homes solely from Thames Street, which means residents will have a completely separate access to the nearby medical centre and hostel. “Subject to planning permission, we aim to begin construction work in early 2013.”

The scheme, which will involve the demolition of the existing homes, will cost around £7.5m to complete. Ms Hornblow added: “Our aim for the scheme is not only to provide high quality new homes but to improve access and privacy for residents and encourage a greater sense of community.

“We have consulted local residents from the outset of the planning process and our community open evenings have proved invaluable in helping us to shape the overall design to meet their needs.

“We have a dedicated tenant liaison officer who is working with the existing residents of Luther Court to establish their housing needs and find alternative suitable accommodation while the building work takes place. If any residents have any questions, we encourage them to get in touch.”