Arc & Co. has successfully structured a debt and equity facility for a landmark 135-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development in Bristol. The complex transaction brings together Downing LLP as senior debt provider and Hame Capital as equity partner in a strategic joint venture with the sponsor Colico Living. The finalised financing package includes a circa £26 million senior development facility from Downing alongside a preferred equity investment from Hame Capital. Structured at approximately 68% LTGDV and 77% LTC, the facility is designed to support the full delivery of the scheme through to completion and stabilisation. This project marks a major achievement for Arc & Co., representing the culmination of more than a year of dedicated advisory work led by Senior Broker Corey Dennis. To bring this scheme to fruition, the team navigated a particularly selective capital markets environment and overcame a series of significant hurdles. This intensive process included managing intricate valuation challenges and facilitating a total redraft of the planning application to address amenity space requirements before successfully securing approval. This case represents a significant period of intensive advisory work and highlights the value of deep industry relationships when a borrower’s capital is heavily concentrated in the planning phase. Led by Senior Broker Corey Dennis, the team navigated a selective market to engineer a 100% funding solution via a £26m senior facility and preferred equity. Demonstrating a holistic commitment to client comfort that went well beyond the standard remit, the team aligned these terms with the 43-month build plan. In doing so, Arc & Co. solved a major developer pain point and provided the sponsor with essential long-term security. Corey Dennis, Senior Broker at Arc & Co., commented: “This was a complex, multifaceted transaction given the scale of the project and the extensive planning process. We carefully structured the funding package to ensure the scheme was fully capitalised while supporting the sponsor’s overall strategy. It was about finding that specific alignment between Downing and Hame Capital that truly recognised the project’s long-term value.” “We are seeing a market shift where developers are moving towards asset stabilisation over disposals, due to the slower sales market, which naturally impacts liquidity. In this environment, success depends on having a partner who understands the nuances of the entire capital stack and which senior and equity partners to approach. That depth of specialist knowledge played an important role in delivering the transaction.” Will Powell, Investment Director at Downing, commented: “We were delighted to close this significant funding package for an experienced and capable sponsor delivering a well-designed student scheme in central Bristol. The financing came with a number of complexities concurrent with this type of deal, and we are looking forward to seeing the project progress over the coming months. A big thanks to all involved.” The development is ideally positioned to serve Bristol’s two leading universities and is now in a position to progress through Gateway 2, with construction slated to begin in early 2027. Key contributions to the transaction included Scott Harvey at Hame Capital and Will Powell at Downing LLP. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

University of Bristol has named UPP as preferred bidder to deliver a significant new purpose built student accommodation scheme at Temple Island, forming a key part of its expanding Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus. The development will comprise three buildings providing 890 student bedrooms, creating one of the principal accommodation hubs for the University within the Temple Quarter area. The scheme is expected to primarily serve postgraduate students, supporting the University’s growing academic and research community in central Bristol. UPP will work in partnership with Watkin Jones as delivery partner, with Cushman & Wakefield advising the University on the procurement process. Located within the wider Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, which is set to open in 2026, the accommodation forms part of a broader vision to create a leading innovation district. The campus will deliver advanced teaching facilities, research laboratories and collaborative workspace for students, staff and enterprise partners, reinforcing Bristol’s position as a key knowledge and innovation hub. Designed by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, the PBSA scheme will incorporate over 1,100 sq m of amenity space, including flexible study areas and social environments aimed at enhancing the overall student experience. The focus on high quality shared spaces reflects the evolving expectations of modern student living, particularly within postgraduate markets. Sustainability is a core element of the development, with the scheme targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating and an EPC A rating. These ambitions align with both the University’s and UPP’s commitment to delivering energy efficient, future ready buildings that support long term operational performance and reduced environmental impact. The appointment marks a further milestone in the delivery of the Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus, with the PBSA scheme set to play a central role in supporting the University’s continued growth and strengthening the integration of education, research and urban development in the city centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

McLaren Construction Midlands and North has made significant progress at the £160m Upper Brook Street student accommodation development in Manchester. Since McLaren’s appointment late last year, work has advanced with both tower cranes now fully operational and concrete cores for both buildings reaching full height. The 23-storey UBS tower has progressed to level five floor slabs, and the nine-storey K block has reached level four. The project team has also completed the installation of the attenuation tank and established exemplary site accommodation nearby. Current works are focused on progressing the concrete frame with floor slab construction ongoing across both buildings, and this phase will continue over the coming months with façade installation expected to commence in the summer. Modern methods of construction remain central to the scheme, and the project incorporates a full concrete frame and fully unitised prefabricated façade panels. The development is targeting high sustainability standards, including BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings, alongside a broader commitment to reducing environmental impact through efficient construction practices. The project has set social value deliverables including creating local jobs, dedicating time supporting unemployed people back into work, improving local skills including by hosting site visits, creating apprenticeships and supporting young people into work, 20% of construction value to be spent locally, and supporting local community projects to help increase green space and biodiversity. The team has started to develop this by working closely with local organisations, including initiatives in partnership with the Salvation Army, to provide work experience opportunities. Engagement with community groups is also ongoing, with discussions underway to support a local Scout group and a proposed greenhouse project linked to a nearby residents’ initiative at Brunswick allotments. Upper Brook Street will deliver 737 student beds across two buildings of 9 and 23 storeys, alongside a range of shared amenities including study areas, fitness facilities and social spaces.  Once complete, the development will provide new public and community-focused facilities, contributing to the wider Oxford Road Corridor. Luke Arnold, Regional Director at McLaren Construction Midlands and North, said: “Progress on Upper Brook Street has been excellent, with the team achieving key structural milestones in a short period of time. Reaching full height on both concrete cores is an achievement and is testament to the collaboration and expertise across the team. As we move forward, we remain focused on maintaining this momentum while continuing to deliver meaningful social value within the local community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Hammerson has secured outline planning consent for a major purpose built student accommodation scheme in Bristol, marking a significant step forward in the redevelopment of a key city centre site. The approval from Bristol City Council will enable the transformation of underutilised land at Cabot Gate, located adjacent to the Cabot Circus estate. The proposals allow for the delivery of up to 600 student accommodation units, alongside new public realm and community focused spaces, subject to detailed design and reserved matters approval. The scheme forms part of Hammerson’s wider strategy to unlock value from its landholdings while enhancing the quality and connectivity of its urban assets. Positioned at one of Bristol’s principal gateway locations, the development is expected to play an important role in strengthening links between surrounding neighbourhoods and the city centre. In addition to student accommodation, the outline plans include the creation of new green spaces, improved pedestrian and cycle routes and a multi purpose community pavilion. These elements are designed to support placemaking objectives and deliver a more integrated and accessible urban environment. The planning consent follows an extensive period of public consultation and engagement with local stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the council’s broader vision for the city. The project also builds on Hammerson’s ongoing investment in Bristol, including enhancement works at Quakers Friars and the continued repositioning of Cabot Circus as a leading retail and leisure destination in the South West. Jonatan Carlring, development director at Hammerson, described the approval as a key milestone for the site, highlighting the collaborative approach taken with the local authority and community. He noted that the scheme will deliver much needed accommodation while improving connectivity and creating high quality public spaces. The Cabot Gate development reflects the continued growth of the student accommodation sector in major regional cities, where demand remains strong and well located schemes are increasingly being integrated into wider mixed use regeneration strategies. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Watkin Jones has reached a major milestone on its 484-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Bristol, with the Malago Road development securing Gateway 2 approval and progressing into full delivery. The scheme, located within the city’s fast-evolving Temple Quarter, is being delivered through a joint venture with Maslow Capital. Gateway 2 approval confirms that all necessary planning, funding and contractual arrangements are in place, allowing the project to move confidently into the next phase of construction. Works commenced on site in early 2026, with the development remaining on programme for completion ahead of the 2028 academic year. Once delivered, the scheme will provide a mix of modern student accommodation, including studio units and 30 non-en suite rooms, arranged across three buildings. The project will regenerate a brownfield site in a well-connected urban location, positioned approximately 100 metres from Bedminster station and within an 11-minute walk of the University of Bristol’s new Temple Quarter campus. Part of the development will operate under a nomination agreement with the university, supporting demand from its expanding student population. The scheme forms part of a wider wave of PBSA development across key regional cities, where supply continues to lag behind growing student numbers. Its proximity to transport infrastructure and major academic institutions is expected to underpin strong long-term occupancy and investment performance. Gwyn Pritchard, managing director at Watkin Jones, said the milestone reflects the strength of collaboration across the project team, as well as the quality of the scheme’s design and delivery approach. He added that the development demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering sustainable, future-ready student accommodation in prime urban locations. Sky Mapson, senior director of origination at Maslow Capital, described Gateway 2 approval as a significant step forward, highlighting Bristol’s continued appeal as a market with clear demand for well-located PBSA. He noted that the scheme is well positioned to meet the long-term needs of the city, particularly given its connectivity and alignment with the University of Bristol’s growth plans. The Malago Road project reinforces the continued momentum within the PBSA sector, with developers and investors targeting high-quality schemes in strong university cities where demand fundamentals remain robust. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

GRAHAM has been appointed by the University of Bath to progress plans for a major new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development at its Claverton Down campus. The scheme, which is being procured via the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), will see GRAHAM work in partnership with the University under a two-stage Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) to help shape and develop the design ahead of construction. Once complete, the development will deliver 960 student bedrooms alongside a range of associated facilities designed to support student wellbeing and campus life, including communal kitchens and social spaces, study areas, a games room, laundry facilities, and flexible spaces for use throughout the academic year. Located on the eastern edge of the University’s campus, the accommodation will comprise a mix of en-suite cluster flats and townhouse-style living, creating a diverse and high-quality residential offering. The project will support the University’s ambition to create a healthy, sustainable and inclusive campus environment, with GRAHAM bringing its expertise in low-carbon construction and energy-efficient design to the scheme. The buildings are targeting high sustainability standards, including certification to Passivhaus principles, which will support reduced energy demand, improved thermal comfort and enhanced indoor air quality for residents. Measures such as air source heat pumps and a fabric-first approach will further contribute to lowering operational carbon and supporting the University’s wider net zero ambitions. The development will play a key role in increasing on-campus accommodation capacity for first-year students, helping to meet growing demand while enhancing the University’s wider residential offering. Rod McMullan, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, said: Securing this appointment with the University of Bath marks an important step in progressing a high-quality student accommodation scheme that responds to the growing demand for on-campus living. We look forward to working closely with the University and wider project team to shape a design that prioritises sustainability, operational efficiency and, importantly, the overall student experience. This collaborative approach will be key to ensuring the development is well-positioned for successful delivery. Dr Ghazwa Alwani-Starr, Chief Operations Officer at University of Bath, said: This scheme is a landmark investment for the University in the year we celebrate our 60th birthday. We look forward to working with GRAHAM as our construction partner. GRAHAM demonstrated their alignment with our values and ambitions to create a high-quality scheme which will enable us to build on our global reputation for providing excellent student facilities. The appointment further strengthens GRAHAM’s track record in delivering high-quality student accommodation projects across the UK, supporting universities in creating modern, sustainable living environments that respond to evolving student needs. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

University of Staffordshire has opened bookings for its £100 million Student Village, marking a major milestone in a development set to transform the student experience and support the continued regeneration of Stoke-on-Trent. The scheme will provide around 1,000 rooms across a mix of new and refurbished accommodation and represents one of the most significant investments in student experience at the University in recent years. It also forms part of a wider programme of regeneration across the city, contributing to economic growth and strengthening Stoke-on-Trent as a place to live, study and work. Designed to offer modern, high-quality living, the Student Village, opening in September 2026, will feature en-suite accommodation across a range of formats including cluster blocks and townhouses. It will support a diverse student population, including undergraduates, postgraduates and returning students, with a focus on helping students feel settled, supported and part of a community from the outset. At the centre of the development will be a Village Hub, providing shared space for socialising, study and wellbeing. The Hub will host events and student-led activity, contributing to a vibrant and connected campus environment supported by the University’s ResLife team. Christina Matthews, Executive Director of Student Life at University of Staffordshire, said: “This is a major investment in the student experience and reflects our commitment to creating an environment where students can truly thrive. “The Student Village has been designed around the reality of student life, not just where students live, but how they build friendships and feel part of a community from day one. At the same time, it reflects the important role the University plays in the ongoing regeneration of Stoke-on-Trent.” The Student Village is located at the heart of the University’s Stoke-on-Trent campus, close to teaching facilities, the nature reserve and transport links. It has been designed with safety and accessibility in mind, incorporating 24/7 security, controlled access and the SafeZone app. The development sits alongside other major investments in the city, including the £60 million Goods Yard development, the revitalisation of the historic Spode Works, and a £29 million programme to transform the railway station and surrounding gateway. Together, these developments are reshaping the city and reinforcing its appeal to students, residents and businesses. A student who has seen the development, Lucy Hughes, said: “The accommodation looks amazing and it feels like everything has been designed with students in mind. The University already has a great community feel, and this is only going to make that stronger. “It’s easy to imagine settling in quickly, meeting people and feeling part of something from the start.” To find out more about the accommodation, visit staffs.ac.uk/accommodation Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

GRAHAM has been chosen by the University of Bath to advance proposals for a substantial purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project at its Claverton Down campus. Procured via the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), the appointment will see GRAHAM work with the University under a two-stage Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) to refine and develop the design ahead of the build phase. When finished, the scheme will provide 960 student bedrooms together with a suite of amenities to support wellbeing and campus life, including communal kitchens and social areas, study spaces, a games room, laundry facilities and flexible rooms for year-round use. Positioned on the eastern side of the campus, the development will feature a blend of en-suite cluster flats and townhouse-style accommodation, creating a varied, high-quality residential offer. The project aligns with the University’s goal of a healthy, sustainable and inclusive campus. GRAHAM will bring expertise in low-carbon construction and energy-efficient design to help realise these ambitions. The buildings are targeting high sustainability performance, including certification to Passivhaus principles, to cut energy demand and improve thermal comfort and indoor air quality. Measures such as air source heat pumps and a fabric-first approach will reduce operational carbon and support the University’s wider net zero targets. The additional capacity is intended to increase on-campus provision for first-year students, addressing rising demand while enhancing the broader residential portfolio. Rod McMullan, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, said: “Securing this appointment with the University of Bath marks an important step in progressing a high-quality student accommodation scheme that responds to the growing demand for on-campus living. “We look forward to working closely with the University and wider project team to shape a design that prioritises sustainability, operational efficiency and, importantly, the overall student experience. This collaborative approach will be key to ensuring the development is well-positioned for successful delivery.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Tiger Developments has started construction on a new purpose-built student accommodation scheme in Manchester. The development is located on Carmoor Road, within walking distance of the University of Manchester, and will provide 172 student bedrooms upon completion. Once finished, the building will be operated by Host, the student accommodation management arm of Tiger Developments and one of the UK’s largest providers in the sector. The project has a gross development value of £40 million and is being funded by Tiger Developments alongside its financing partner Hampshire Trust Bank. Construction is being delivered by GMI Construction Group, with completion scheduled for the 2027/28 academic year. Around 15% of the rooms will be offered at discounted market rent to support students from lower-income backgrounds. The development is targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings, reflecting a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency in its design and operation. The Carmoor Road scheme is positioned to meet rising demand for professionally managed student accommodation in Manchester, one of the UK’s largest university cities. It also forms part of Tiger Developments’ wider expansion strategy across major university locations, including two additional schemes currently underway in Bristol. John Nesbitt, Executive Director at Tiger Developments, said: “We are delighted to begin construction on our latest scheme in Manchester, a city that has strong demand for well-located student accommodation. This development reflects our commitment to delivering sustainable, thoughtfully designed homes for students, while also contributing positively to the local community. Through our trusted student housing brand Host, we look forward to welcoming students in time for the 2027/28 academic year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals