Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, alongside client AG South Plaza B.V and developer Melburg, has celebrated a key construction milestone at 360 Bristol, a Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) development located on Marlborough Street in the heart of the city. The project team and partners – including IESIS, structural engineer HEXA, and architect ECE Westworks – came together on the 30th October for a topping out ceremony to celebrate a major milestone – completion of the building’s structure, a significant step in transforming the former 1960s office block into a 10-storey, 399-bedroom sustainable student living community. Works officially began in August 2024, with enabling works taking place ahead of the main construction phase, which commenced in May 2025.  Scheduled for completion in summer 2026, the development will provide a mix of studio and cluster bedrooms, featuring shared kitchens, a gym, cinema, karaoke, content rooms, games lounge, study spaces, yoga and Zumba rooms, and extensive outdoor areas for socialising. Outdoor amenity space includes an accessible terrace on the 10th floor and ground floor external areas on the podium over the existing basement. Basement parking and cycle storage have also been retained throughout the works. Remedial repairs to the existing structural frame have been undertaken including fire protection enhancements, and three additional upper floors have been constructed to provide additional living spaces. The project also delivers significant fire safety improvements in line with the requirements of the Building Safety Act. This sustainable design and delivery approach reflects the shared values of Winvic, AG South Plaza B.V, and Melburg, championing responsible regeneration within the PBSA sector whilst delivering significant sustainable improvements such as 3,500 tonnes of lifetime carbon savings, 1,500% biodiversity net gains, EPC A and BREEAM “Excellent” ratings. Delivered by Winvic under the Gateway 2 process, 360 Bristol is the contractor’s first project to progress through the new regime, underscoring its commitment to quality, collaboration, and building safety. The scheme is delivering meaningful social value through employment, education and community engagement. Two site visits have been held so far, one in partnership with The Restore Trust and O’Neill and Brennan hosting 15 unemployed learners, and another for T Level students from IBK Academy, where one student will be completing their industry placement on site. Creating inclusive employment opportunities, Winvic is piloting the Standing Tall programme, supporting an individual who was homeless into employment. Over 50 local employees (within 30 miles) are working on the project, which is also set to deliver over 200 training weeks for both new and existing staff, including members of the supply chain. Working alongside Winvic Construction for the scheme are Employer’s Agent and project manager – IESIS, Architect – ECE Westworks, Structural and Civil Engineer – HEXA and M&E consultant – BOX 20. Mark Jones, Managing Director of Multi-Room at Winvic Construction Ltd, said: “Reaching the topping out milestone at 360 Bristol is an exciting step forward for the project team. This scheme perfectly demonstrates how intelligent design and collaborative delivery can bring new life to existing structures – reducing embodied carbon and contributing to a more sustainable built environment. “It also marks our first project delivered through the Gateway 2 process, highlighting our commitment to building safety, quality, and partnership. I’d like to thank our client and project partners for their continued collaboration. Together, we are delivering a landmark building that will enhance Bristol’s student experience and stand as a benchmark for sustainable urban redevelopment.” Andrew Burns, Head of Asset and development at Melberg, said: “We are incredibly proud to see 360 Bristol reach this significant milestone. From the outset, our vision was to create a vibrant, inclusive community that not only meets the evolving needs of students but also sets new standards for sustainability and wellbeing. By retaining and enhancing the existing structure, we have dramatically reduced embodied carbon, while our commitment to EPC A and BREEAM ‘Excellent’ ratings ensures the building’s long-term environmental performance. The extensive amenity offer—from social spaces and wellness rooms to accessible outdoor terraces – reflects our belief that great places to live should also support personal growth and community connection. We look forward to welcoming students in September 2026 to a development that truly raises the bar for sustainable urban living in Bristol.” Join Winvic on social media – LinkedIn, and Instagram. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Winvic Construction has been appointed main contractor for a £130 million build to rent development in Birmingham, as developers McLaren Living and Heim Global Investor press ahead with their latest joint venture. The scheme, known as Oasis, will bring 456 new rental homes to Kent Street in Birmingham city centre. It is being forward funded by Heim Global Investor, with McLaren Living leading development and Winvic overseeing construction. This marks the second collaboration between Heim and McLaren Living, following their ongoing Water Lane project in Leeds’ South Bank regeneration area, where a 375 home build to rent development is currently under construction and scheduled to complete in 2027. Oasis will comprise one and two bedroom apartments within an eleven storey building, supported by a range of resident amenities including a gym, lounge and co working space. Outdoor facilities will feature a landscaped courtyard and roof terraces. The development is expected to complete in 2029. McLaren Living managing director Matthew Biddle said:“Following our successful collaboration with Heim on Water Lane in Leeds, we are delighted to build on our trusted partnership and add to our strong pipeline of projects across the UK’s best locations and cities. Oasis, with its city centre location, local amenities and strong transport links, is a great addition to our portfolio. We look forward to continuing to grow our partnership with Heim and collaborating on developments where we share a clear vision.” Heim Global Investor director David Peacock said:“We are pleased to continue our partnership with McLaren Living, alongside Winvic Construction, to deploy further capital for our UK build to core fund. This development fits perfectly with our strategy of delivering mid market rental homes across the UK’s key cities with experienced partners. We remain very active in the market and have a strong pipeline of opportunities as we continue to expand our presence in the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Winvic Construction Ltd has completed the Threadworks Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Leeds city centre, delivering 548 beds as part of the redevelopment of the former International Swimming Pool site. The project, commissioned by CASL Lisbon Street, is located at the corner of Lisbon Street and Castle Street and was managed by DLC Europe and Colliers, with KS4 serving as Employer’s Agent. The 24-storey tower, built to BREEAM Excellent standards, offers single occupancy en-suite bedrooms alongside shared amenities including cinema rooms, a fitness centre, relaxation spaces, a games room, a TV lounge, and a 1,593 sq ft roof terrace on the first floor. During construction, Winvic introduced an innovation to reduce carbon impact by replacing gas-fired boilers with electric alternatives. This not only cut emissions but also improved safety by removing open flames, with the boilers’ technology preventing element overheating. Winvic also promoted collaboration across the wider four-plot development, which includes build-to-rent apartments, a hotel, and commercial spaces. In line with its commitment to leaving a positive local legacy, Winvic implemented an Employment and Skills Plan to maximise social value. The project created 134 new jobs, emphasising local recruitment. Nine local people entering the industry for the first time were supported into work, five veterans gained roles in engineering and electrical trades, and a sixth joined as a trainee window fitter through supply chain partner Unique Windows. Three local apprentices were recruited and 30 existing apprenticeships were sustained. Additional outreach included career workshops in schools and colleges and the donation of 50 books to a local primary school for World Book Day. Winvic’s Trainee Site Manager also joined Leeds City Council’s Apprenticeship Academy to support further training opportunities. The company partnered with local charities, raising funds for Zarach, donating £250 to Leeds Community Wood Recycling, and providing hygiene products and an on-site clothes bank for homelessness charity St George’s Crypt. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

McLaren Construction Midlands and North has successfully delivered the £30 million student accommodation scheme, St Gabriel’s Court, in Manchester. Delivered on behalf of McLaren Property, the 321-bed development will enhance the city’s student housing provision while significantly contributing to the regeneration of the local area. Located at Oxford Place, adjacent to Oxford Road and south of the city centre, the two-acre site is close to the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University campuses. The scheme, which broke ground in summer 2023, is now fully complete, and has welcomed students studying at Manchester’s universities to their new home. Designed to complement and enhance the Victoria Park Conservation Area – St Gabriel’s Court is a mixture of refurbishment and new build works which included the renovation of St Gabriels Lodge, the 1963 chapel and Woodthorpe Hall, with an additional two new four and five storey buildings constructed at either end of the site. Overall, the scheme houses 321-bed spaces in a mix of cluster bedrooms (5-8 bed clusters), with a communal kitchen and living space, studio rooms, and amenity and ancillary spaces. The refurbished St Gabriel’s Lodge and Woodthorpe Hall contains the studios, cluster bedrooms are located in the new purpose-built student accommodation buildings, and the chapel has been refurbished to provide shared amenity space for residents. The original St Gabriels Lodge building to the east of the chapel was built in the 1850s and has been sensitively restored with the original stone façade, ornate chimneys and curved windows retained. Repairs were undertaken using specially sourced reclaimed brickwork and key features, including the main entrance doors, were refurbished. While the interior was modernised, key elements were preserved, and new amenity spaces were introduced. The 1963 Chapel, designed by modernist architects Reynolds and Scott, was restored to ensure that key architectural features are retained including the zig-zag canopy and the original south gable window, now replaced to match the original design. A circular stained-glass window on the north elevation has also been preserved and a statue of Christ was donated to St Hilda Church of England Church, Manchester. The boundary wall to Oxford Place was retained, repaired and widened with the addition of new gates. Woodthorpe Hall is a 1930s build designed in a neo-Georgian style and was formerly a women’s only hall of residence. As part of the restoration, the original brick façade was retained, and the elevations were renewed using existing materials. The grassed courtyard, a key feature of the original layout, has been modernised with additional paving to retain its character that includes two mature trees and surrounding hedgerows. Alongside the renovation work, the new buildings complement the site’s heritage with buff and red brick finishes, aluminium-framed glazing, and perforated aluminium screens. Works also included the construction of a sub-station, outbuildings and extensive external landscaping. The development faced complex logistical challenges due to its tight, street-facing site and a ‘just-in-time’ delivery system was implemented to manage these constraints. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) were key to the build including precast concrete retaining walls overclad with hand-laid bricks, bathroom pods for Blocks A and D, and prefabricated chimneys at Woodthorpe Hall finished with brick slips made from reclaimed site bricks. Blocks A and D were constructed using in-situ concrete framing with prefabricated stairs, and steel frame systems were used for the inner leaf of the external walls. Curtain walling was added to the upper levels of the new buildings while high-quality punched windows were installed throughout, using aluminium in the new builds and Block C and traditional timber sash and hinged windows in Block B.  The chapel’s gable window was also replaced with a new steel window and new brickwork in Blocks A and D was hand-laid with matching coursing using retained or reclaimed bricks wherever possible. The scheme also integrated ecological enhancements including bat, swift, and sparrow boxes built into the building façades, and bee posts in the landscaping. Designed with sustainability at its core, the development is targeting an BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating to Block A & D and ‘Very Good’ to Blocks B & C, with upgrades to insulation across retained structures and a modern energy centre installed in Block One. Sustainability was further supported with the installation of photovoltaic panels on the roofs of Blocks A, D, and the cycle store and mature trees along the site frontage were preserved enhancing the completed development’s landscape character. Throughout the build, McLaren Construction prioritised the use of local supply chain partners and maintained open communication with the community through regular newsletters and site updates. Darren Harding, Divisional Director at McLaren Construction Midlands and North, said: “We are proud to have completed our delivery of this pivotal scheme in central Manchester. St Gabriel’s Court blends heritage refurbishment with modern construction to provide much-needed, high-quality student accommodation, diversifying the options for university goers in the heart of the city. This scheme is testament to our regional capability and commitment to sustainability.” David Atherton, Divisional Managing Director, McLaren Property, said: “The quality of the finished product speaks for itself, and the McLaren Construction team have done an excellent job getting this challenging construction project across the line. The buildings have been sensitively restored and whilst all bedrooms reflect the highest standards expected from modern student accommodation; the original character of the historic buildings continues to shine though. With students now fully settled in the new accommodation, this project represents a very pleasing result for all involved.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

McAleer & Rushe has been appointed as main contractor for a major new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project on Tottenham High Road, marking another significant milestone in the regeneration of north London’s historic corridor. Known as The Printworks, the development will combine the restoration of listed heritage buildings with the construction of a contemporary new-build structure to the rear, creating a total of 287 student bedrooms. Eleven of these will be located within the refurbished period properties at 807 and 819–829 High Road, while 276 rooms will form part of the new modern extension behind them. The project is being delivered on behalf of High Road West (Tottenham) Limited, a vehicle established by Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, and will provide high-quality, sustainable living spaces designed to support student wellbeing and community life. The scheme’s design balances respect for Tottenham’s architectural character with forward-looking sustainability measures. The retained façades will preserve the distinctive local streetscape, while the new construction will introduce energy-efficient systems, modern communal areas, and landscaped outdoor spaces. The combination of heritage conservation and contemporary student housing reflects a wider trend across London’s urban regeneration areas, where adaptive reuse and low-carbon design are driving investment in education-focused developments. Mark Diamond, senior director at McAleer & Rushe, said the company was proud to bring its expertise to such a significant project.“We’re thrilled to be delivering The Printworks, a landmark scheme that showcases our expertise in creating high-quality, sustainable student accommodation while celebrating and preserving local heritage. This development marks an exciting new chapter in the regeneration of Tottenham High Road, and we’re proud to be contributing much-needed student homes and modern spaces that enhance wellbeing and community for future generations.” McAleer & Rushe has a strong track record in the PBSA sector, with several large-scale university and private accommodation schemes across the UK and Ireland. The Printworks adds to its growing London portfolio and represents another example of the contractor’s ability to deliver complex urban projects that combine conservation, sustainability, and community value. Once complete, the development will not only meet the rising demand for student housing in the capital but also play a key role in revitalising one of Tottenham’s most historic streets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has completed works on a Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Leeds city centre. The 548-bed project – named Threadworks – delivered on behalf of client CASL Lisbon Street, is located on the corner of Lisbon Street and Castle Street and is part of the wider redevelopment of the former International Swimming Pool site. The development was managed jointly by DLC Europe and Colliers, with Employer’s Agent role undertaken by KS4. The 24-storey single tower block – built to BREEAM Excellent – provides single occupancy and en-suite bedrooms together with shared amenities such as cinema rooms, a fitness centre, relaxation spaces, a games room and a TV lounge. Students also benefit from a 1,593 sq ft roof terrace on the first floor. During construction, Winvic introduced an innovation to reduce the carbon impact associated with hot works by replacing gas fired boilers for electric alternatives. This approach not only cut emissions but also improved safety by eliminating open flames, with the boilers’ in-built technology preventing element overheating. Throughout the project, Winvic promoted cross-contractor collaboration on the wider four-plot development, which includes build-to-rent apartments, hotel, and commercial spaces. In line with Winvic’s commitment to leaving a positive legacy in communities where it works, the contractor developed an Employment and Skills Plan to maximise Social Value. Working with supply chain partners and education providers, Winvic generated new employment and training opportunities, ran career talks and work experience programmes, and supported apprenticeships. 134 new jobs were created during construction, with a strong focus on local recruitment. Nine local people who were new to the industry were supported into work, while five veterans gained employment in engineering and electrical roles, with a sixth supported into training and employment as a window fitter through supply chain partner Unique Windows. Three local apprentices were recruited, while 30 existing apprenticeships were sustained through the project. Further outreach included career workshops in local schools and colleges, and the donation of 50 books to a local primary school ensuring each child in the class could take a book home on World Book Day. In addition, Winvic’s Trainee Site Manager signed up to support delivery of Leeds City Council’s Apprenticeship Academy. Winvic also built partnerships with local charities and community groups, raising funds for Zarach, which provides beds for children affected by bed poverty, donating £250 to Leeds Community Wood Recycling to expand employment and volunteering opportunities, and supplying hygiene products alongside an on-site clothes bank for homelessness charity St George’s Crypt. Mark Jones, Managing Director of Multi-Room at Winvic Construction, said:“Winvic is proud to have been the trusted partner of CASL and the scheme’s fund, to deliver this landmark PBSA development in the heart of Leeds. With its close proximity to the city’s two main university campuses and Leeds train station, it provides students with a vibrant and well-connected place to live.” Students have now moved into the scheme ready for the 2025/2026 academic year. Join Winvic on social media – LinkedIn, and Instagram. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has broken ground at its purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) site, Poland House in Stratford, East London, with McAleer & Rushe appointed to deliver the £50m contract. The development will create 284 high-quality student beds, 35% of which will be affordable accommodation, and is the first contract Firethorn has awarded to McAleer & Rushe. Poland House residents will benefit from generous amenities, including spacious common rooms, study areas and an on-site gym. A dedicated community space for local residents will also be delivered as part of the project. The site will be developed to a target BREEAM “Excellent” rating, in line with Firethorn’s strong commitment to delivering sustainable, best-in-class assets. Situated on Stratford High Street, Poland House provides convenient access to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford High Street DLR Station and Stratford Station, and is within a 15-minute walking distance of both UCL East and University Arts London. Paul Martin, Head of Development at Firethorn, commented: “Poland House is the third student development in our expanding Living portfolio, as we continue to strengthen our presence in prime university cities across the UK. “With excellent connectivity, in an area of continued investment and regeneration, this project reflects our continued commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable accommodation that enhances the student experience. “McAleer & Rushe has a proven history of completing best-in-class PBSA assets and we look forward to working closely with the team to develop the site at pace.” Mark Diamond, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe, said: “We are delighted to cut the first sod together with Firethorn on Poland House, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of this exciting new student development in Stratford. “Reflecting our shared commitment to building vibrant, well-designed spaces that stand the test of time, this development will be a valuable addition to the local community, with which we will actively engage throughout construction to make a positive and lasting contribution. “With our experienced team and trusted supply chain, we look forward to delivering high-quality, sustainable accommodation for East London’s thriving student community.” The project is due for completion ahead of the 2028/9 academic year. Poland House forms part of Firethorn’s growing Living portfolio, which includes PBSA developments in Hackney Wick, Stratford, and Leith Walk in Edinburgh, and the office-to-residential conversion of One Bessborough Gardens in central London. Firethorn recently acquired 5 Lloyd’s Avenue in the City of London, with plans to convert the office building into a high-density hotel with modern public amenities. Work is also well underway at the 138-bedroom site in Sackville Place in Dublin, which will sleep up to 716 guests For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

GMI Construction Group PLC, a national award-winning UK contractor providing design and build capabilities, has reached a significant construction milestone as the final steel beam was raised into place during a traditional “topping out” ceremony for Avon Street, a £50 million purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Bristol’s Temple Meads Quarter. The landmark development, delivered on behalf of a joint venture between leading PBSA specialist Host and Corebridge Real Estate Investors, will provide 447 high-quality student bedrooms across two apartment blocks and a standalone mixed-use building. The scheme, created in consultation with Bristol City Council, occupies the former Chanson Foods site on Avon Street and was designed by architects Chapman Taylor. Adam Taylor, GMI Construction’s Regional Director in the Midlands, said: “It is a privilege to be delivering such a high-profile development in the heart of Bristol. Demand for well-designed student accommodation in the city has never been greater, and this scheme will play an important role in meeting that need. Avon Street also demonstrates the depth of expertise we have amassed in the PBSA sector, as well as GMI’s ability to expand into new regions while maintaining the same standards of quality and delivery that our clients expect.” Situated 200 metres from Bristol Temple Meads station and overlooking the city’s Floating Harbour, the 12-story project is located directly opposite the new Bristol University Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, and, given the level of unmet demand from students currently unable to access PBSA in the city, will deliver much needed accommodations in the centre of Bristol. In addition, the project’s distinctive architecture references the area’s industrial heritage and neighbouring railway buildings, creating a new landmark for those traveling in and out of the station. John Nesbitt, Tiger Developments, Managing Director, said: “The topping out of Avon Street represents an exciting step forward that will transform the student living experience in Bristol. “The city faces significant pressure on student housing, and this scheme will make a real difference by providing much needed accommodations in a location that is second to none. Working alongside GMI, we are developing a project that combines architectural distinction with the modern facilities students want and need, ensuring it becomes one of the most desirable places to live and study in Bristol.” Kevin Reid, Global Chief Operating Officer and Head of Europe at Corebridge Real Estate Investors, comments: “Having developed or acquired nearly 5,000 beds of PBSA in the UK, we have a good perspective on not only where to invest but how best to do so. We are pleased to partner with Host and GMI on this exciting project.” The topping out ceremony, attended by key stakeholders from across the development team, marks a major achievement on the journey to final completion ahead of the 2026/27 academic year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Hollis Wharf, a landmark new mixed-use student accommodation development on the banks of the River Avon in Bath, has officially completed. Located within walking distance of the city centre, Bath’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, and Bath Spa University, the development delivers 120 high-quality studios and cluster bedrooms, alongside a vibrant mix of shared amenities and a ground-floor commercial space. Developed by Alumno, constructed by RED Construction Group’s Southwest team, and funded by Heitman, Hollis Wharf has been carefully designed by architects AWW to complement Bath’s rich architectural heritage and sit sensitively alongside adjacent Grade II listed buildings. The Deputy Mayor of Bath, Councillor Ian Halsall, attended the launch event, where he presented prizes to the student photographers and enjoyed a tour of the new and exciting residence. The five-storey building offers a diverse range of accommodation options, including en-suite cluster rooms and self-contained studios, as well as study, play, and social spaces. A standout feature is the expansive roof terrace, providing panoramic views over Bath’s historic skyline. The ground and mezzanine levels will be occupied by local charity Mercy in Action, which has been based on the site for many years. The purpose-built storage and distribution centre will enable the charity to continue and expand its vital work within the community, linking the development’s future with its past. In keeping with Alumno’s commitment to celebrating culture and creativity, Hollis Wharf showcases the work of local artists. The atrium features a striking ceramic sculpture by Bath-based artist Patricia Volk, inspired by the city’s historic textile and dyeing industries. Alongside it, a wall-based map of the River Avon illustrates the river’s role in Bath’s 18th-century industrial growth, creating a narrative bridge between heritage and contemporary design. Following Alumno’s tradition across its projects, Hollis Wharf played host to a student photography exhibition that  provided a platform for talented students to showcase their work and engage with the wider community, highlighting creativity and local culture. Youth Connect South West, providing a range of services for young people aged 11–25 in the Bath and North East Somerset area were the charity for the event. David Campbell, Managing Director of Alumno, said:“This project has been a true collaboration between our team, architects, contractors, and local stakeholders. We are delighted to see Hollis Wharf brought to life and look forward to welcoming students into this exceptional new residence.” James Devey, Division Director at RED Construction South West, added: “We are proud to have played a vital role in delivering a sustainable, mixed-use community with such a rich heritage for the students of Bath. The trust that Alumno put in our team to complete work on Hollis Wharf is testament to our reputation within the region.” The planning application received support from both the University of Bath and Bath Spa University, who highlighted the importance of purpose-built student accommodation in helping to ease pressure on the city’s housing market. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals