Private rental specialist Grainger is said to be in negotiations with the firm about delivering the first phase of the redevelopment of the site.

The 4.6 acre site was cleared back in 2014 leaving only the landmark clock tower of the old newspaper office building.

Work on the scheme, which will comprise 242 purpose-built rental homes with 72 car parking spaces, is now set to start this summer.

Architect The Harris Partnership designed the building on behalf of land owner Sterling Investments, with the main residential tower stepping from 18 to 11 storeys.

The initial phase of works will also include extensive public realm and infrastructure works to create the further three serviced plots, and offer them ready for delivery to the market.