Viridis Living has secured a key milestone in the redevelopment of the University of Manchester’s Fallowfield Campus, with Manchester City Council granting Reserved Matters Planning Consent.

The consortium, comprising Equitix, GRAHAM and Derwent FM, worked alongside the University, local community, and key stakeholders to gain approval for the detailed design, layout, and landscaping plans.

The scheme will deliver up to 3,300 new student homes across Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall, supported by a range of amenities, ancillary residences and extensive green infrastructure. Five distinct neighbourhoods will be created within the site, each drawing inspiration from Manchester’s cultural, sporting and musical heritage.

The project is targeting both Passivhaus certification and a BREEAM Excellent rating. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), including offsite manufacturing, will also be used to improve efficiency, cut waste, and accelerate delivery.

In June 2025, Viridis Living became one of the first developers to submit an application to the new Building Safety Regulator, three months ahead of planning approval. This early step underlines the consortium’s focus on fire safety, compliance, and the timely delivery of student housing in the city.

GRAHAM has led the planning process on behalf of the consortium, in collaboration with architects Sheppard Robson and planning consultants Deloitte.

Commenting on the milestone, Neil McFarlane, GRAHAM Project Director, said: “We’re delighted to reach this important milestone on a project of such scale and significance. The approved plans reflect our commitment to delivering a quality development that meets the evolving needs of students and the University.”

Enabling works are already underway, with main construction set to begin in early 2026. The first phase of accommodation is scheduled for completion in 2026, with a phased handover continuing through to 2030.

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