WORK to build a 566-room block of student flats in Tottenham Hale could start as early as 2011 if a planning application is approved.

The "high-quality" development – NW2 Ferry Lane – will be the second build of its kind in Hale Village and will add new life to the area, student accommodation provider Unite said.

Neighbouring Emily Bowes Court opened last year and is home to hundreds University of the Arts London students.

Their existence adds hundreds of thousands of pounds to the economy and is a source of business for Tottenham Hale Retail Park which includes a Costa Coffee, a stationary shop and Boots the Chemists.

Asif Uz Zaman, design and planning manager for Unite, said: "Our accommodation gives students the stable foundation that they need to settle down and contribute positively to their local community.

"Residents of Emily Bowes Court told us in a recent survey that they have been shopping locally and are looking to volunteer with community groups. The average student spends £7,700 a year on books, travel, food and entertainment.

"This means that residents of Emily Bowes Court and future residents of NW2 Ferry Lane will be spending a total of almost £9 million a year, much of this in the local economy."

The planning application was submitted to Haringey Council on November 10 following consultation with the community.

If it gets the green light, construction would start in 2011 and completed by 2012 if the project runs smoothly.

Residents have until the end of November to make comments on the plans.

Unite also manages two other student housing developments in Haringey: Station Court, in Page Green Terrace, off High Road, Tottenham, and Greenview Court, in Highgate.