Bouygues UK, in partnership with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and leading infrastructure investor Equitix, has secured planning permission from the London Borough of Southwark for the transformative redevelopment of Bankside House. The new 1,945-bed student residence, located at 24 Sumner Street, SE1 – just steps from Tate Modern and the heart of Bankside’s cultural district – will break ground in 2027 and is scheduled to open before September 2032. The scheme represents one of the largest purpose-built student accommodation developments in central London replacing the existing mid-century office conversion with a landmark piece of civic architecture. The project will deliver high-quality, affordable student living and create new public amenities for the Bankside community. Addressing Student Need This significant investment directly supports LSE’s 2030 Strategy goal to offer 6,000 university-controlled bed spaces and guarantee an accommodation offer to every new first-year student. With over 12,000 full-time students, around 60% currently rely on London’s private rental market accommodation. The Bankside redevelopment will make a major contribution to closing this gap, easing housing pressure and supporting student access. Excellence in Development and Construction Bouygues UK is leading both the development and construction of this landmark project, drawing on its track record in sustainable, large-scale delivery in complex urban environments, in partnership with leading infrastructure investor Equitix. Bouygues UK’s team has managed the project from the outset: overseeing an international architectural competition, community and stakeholder engagement, and all planning processes, working closely with design partners Carmody Groarke and Sheppard Robson, as well as planning advisors Montagu Evans Planning, Heritage & Townscape, Viability and Socioeconomics The approved design features three stepped towers of 24, 26 and 28 storeys, linked by two low-rise pavilions, all arranged around generous landscaped courtyards. At ground level, new public routes and active frontages will seamlessly connect Sumner Street with the wider Bankside cultural quarter, creating an open, welcoming environment for students and the local community alike. Sustainability and Innovation Environmental performance is at the core of the development. The scheme targets BREEAM Excellent (with an aspiration for Outstanding), follows WELL principles for health and wellbeing, and aims for Passivhaus certification for operational energy performance. The building will be all-electric, with high-performance insulation and extensive rooftop solar panels, achieving exceptionally low operational energy use (45–55 kWh/m²/year). Bouygues UK will target more than 99% diversion of construction waste from landfill and ensure at least 20% of materials by value are recycled or reused. Through structural optimisation and careful façade specification, the project will minimise upfront embodied carbon, setting a new benchmark for sustainable construction in the sector. Affordable Living and Social Value All student rooms will be offered at sub-market rents, with 15% of bed spaces meeting the London Plan’s definition of Affordable Student Accommodation. A diverse range of room types and price points will broaden access to LSE and help relieve pressure on the wider London rental market. The development is also designed to deliver significant community benefits, including: Quotes “Securing planning permission for Bankside House is a landmark moment for Bouygues UK and for the student accommodation sector in London. In partnership with LSE and Equitix, we’ve developed a scheme that puts affordability, sustainability and community at its core. We’re proud of the role we have had in bringing this project from concept to consent, and we look forward to delivering a building that will stand as a genuine piece of civic architecture for generations to come.”Oliver Campbell, Managing Director, Development, Bouygues UK “This is the culmination of a ten-year engagement with the borough on the redevelopment of our Bankside residences. Working with the Southwark team we have crafted an affordable, sustainable and high-quality design which will make a significant contribution to the borough. The scheme’s civic offer is incredibly strong with genuine public access and community uses integrated within the building and we can’t wait to see LSE’s world class estate extended south of the river.” Julian Robinson, Director of Estates, London School of Economics and Political Science “LSE’s aim is to guarantee an offer of accommodation to all new, first year students. Securing planning permission for Bankside House is a major step forward towards our goal. Our team are extremely excited about the new scheme and what it will mean for LSE students. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the officers and Councillors in Southwark who have been so supportive of our vision for the site.”Ian Spencer, Director of Residential and Catering Services, London School of Economics and Political Science “Bankside House represents a new benchmark for socially impactful investment in central London and the London School of Economics’ role as an international centre of excellence. Securing planning approval is an important milestone for the project for all partners. Working alongside Bouygues and LSE, we remain committed to creating affordable, high‑quality student accommodation that will support the university, its students and the wider community for many years to come.”Hugh Crossley, CEO, Equitix “We are delighted that Southwark Borough Council has granted planning approval for LSE’s Bankside House. Conceived as three distinct yet connected houses, the project will provide an important new home for the LSE student community while contributing a confident addition to London’s river skyline. At ground level, a series of pavilions open the site to the city, strengthening the public realm and creating a welcoming threshold between LSE, the Bankside and the wider urban context. On a student scale, we wanted every room – both spatially and climatically – to be a genuinely good room, meeting Passivhaus standards and setting a new benchmark for sustainable design. We look forward to progressing the project in close collaboration with our partners, Bouygues UK, Equitix and LSE.”Rupert Goddard, Partner at Sheppard Robson and Rowan Seaford, Director at Carmody Groarke Next steps With planning permission now secured, Bouygues UK will progress detailed construction planning work, including its gateway 2 submission. The new Bankside House is scheduled to open before September 2032, ready to welcome its first cohort of students at the start

Caddick Construction has secured a £25 million design and build contract to deliver a new purpose-built student accommodation scheme in Durham. The company has been appointed to construct the 232-bed Melbury Court development off Old Dryburn Way on behalf of Whitesmocks Limited. The scheme will provide modern student living spaces aimed at meeting growing demand for accommodation in the city. In addition to residential units, the development will feature new landscaping designed to enhance the surrounding area and create a more accessible and attractive environment. Construction is scheduled for completion in summer 2027, in time for the 2027/28 academic year. The project is expected to support Durham’s expanding student population while contributing to the local economy. The contract award comes a year after Caddick opened its Durham office and builds on its existing work in the county, including the delivery of a BREEAM Excellent distribution centre for DPD at Forrest Park in Newton Aycliffe. Steve Ford, Regional Managing Director of Caddick Construction North East & Yorkshire, commented: “We’re proud to be expanding our presence in Durham with our appointment to deliver this new student accommodation development. The scheme at Melbury Court represents a significant investment in high-quality student accommodation and demonstrates continued confidence in the city’s thriving higher education sector. We look forward to working collaboratively with our partners to deliver a best-in-class scheme that will serve students for years to come.” Caddick is a registered partner with the Considerate Constructors Scheme and has committed to maintaining high standards across its projects. As part of the build, the contractor will also implement an employment and skills plan, including local training opportunities, job creation, and support for educators and community initiatives through volunteering and fundraising. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Firethorn has secured Gateway 2 approval for its purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project in Stratford, East London, marking a key regulatory milestone for the developer. The 284-bed development, which will include 35% affordable student accommodation, is being delivered by McAleer & Rushe and forms part of Firethorn’s growing Living portfolio. Gateway 2 approval from the Building Safety Regulator confirms that the detailed design and construction control arrangements meet critical safety requirements and provide greater regulatory certainty, as outlined in the Building Safety Act. Full-scale construction can now take place, with works due to complete in time for the 2028/29 academic year. Located on Stratford High Street, the development will feature shared study, social and fitness amenities, alongside a ground-floor community space for public use. The site benefits from close proximity to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and is within walking distance of both UCL East and University of the Arts London. In line with Firethorn’s strong commitment to delivering sustainable, best-in-class assets, the development has a target BREEAM “Excellent” rating, with a focus on high-quality building performance and long-term operational efficiency. Paul Martin, Head of Development at Firethorn, commented: “Securing Gateway 2 approval marks a significant milestone, enabling us to move confidently into the construction phase and continue expanding our PBSA platform in one of London’s most dynamic and well‑connected areas. “Working alongside McAleer & Rushe, we are proud to deliver modern, high‑quality and sustainable accommodation in Stratford — a thriving Higher Education hub with exceptional transport links. This development will help meet the strong and growing demand from East London’s student population.” Mark Diamond, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe, commented: “We look forward to progressing the scheme following this approval, which reflects the strength of the collaborative approach taken by the Firethorn and McAleer & Rushe project team. Our focus remains on maintaining the highest standards of building safety, quality and sustainability as works commence on-site, delivering safe, modern student accommodation in East London.” The site forms part of Firethorn’s Living portfolio, including PBSA developments in Hackney Wick, Stratford, and The Malt Works at Leith Walk in Edinburgh. For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor specialising in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has completed Crown Place in Birmingham – a landmark 33-storey purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development. Practical completion was achieved on programme in December 2025 for client Crown Student Living, marking the delivery of Birmingham’s tallest student accommodation building and a significant new addition to the city’s skyline. The completion of Crown Place represents a landmark moment for Winvic, taking total delivery beyond 15,000 beds across its multi-room sector. This milestone highlights sustained growth and reinforces Winvic’s position as a leading multi-room contractor, with expertise in delivering large-scale residential developments of all types – from high-rise city towers to mid-rise and suburban schemes – across a variety of locations nationwide. Located on the corner of Lancaster Street in Birmingham city centre in easy reach of Aston University, Birmingham City University and the University of Birmingham, the ?85 million scheme will be operated by global student housing provider Yugo, with students now moving in from January 2026. Crown Place offers 814 student beds, including 572 studios, 114 cluster flats and 128 duplex rooms, arranged across a 33-storey tower and adjoining 9 and 12-storey blocks. The scheme features over 13,000 sq ft of amenity space, including study rooms, communal kitchens, private dining areas, lounges, cinema and karaoke rooms, and a fully equipped gym, alongside a first-floor terrace and a Sky lounge at Level 33 – setting new standards for student living in Birmingham. Designed by ECE Westworks and engineered by Meinhardt, Crown Place was delivered on a highly constrained city-centre site located in a major arterial route into Birmingham. Winvic implemented a detailed logistics strategy, with just-in-time deliveries to minimise disruption and ensure programme certainty throughout the 145 week build programme. Innovation has been central to the project’s success. Crown Place is not only Winvic’s tallest scheme to date, but also the contractor’s first project to utilise a unitised brick fa?ade system, enabling the rapid installation of 2,768 prefabricated fa?ade panels without the need for external access. The project saw the UK-first deployment of Skyline Cockpit, allowing the tower crane to be operated remotely from ground level to enhance both safety and efficiency. Advanced technology and sustainable practices were integrated throughout the scheme, including the use of HP SitePrint, a BIM-linked robotic setting-out system; GAMMA AR, an augmented reality tool that overlays 3D BIM designs onto the as-built environment; and the AmpD Enertainer battery system, which reduced diesel use by 7,645 litres per week, supporting greener operations. Additional innovations included an open-top goods hoist to safely and efficiently distribute materials to the upper floors, and KONE jump lift technology, which enabled early lift installation and operation, providing enhanced material and operative movement management. Winvic also placed a strong focus on social value, supporting local communities through employment, education and charitable initiatives. The project achieved outstanding CCS scores of 49 and was recognised with a Silver National Site Award. Over 3,800 weeks of employment were created for Birmingham residents into new roles on site. Since the project began, 14 students and apprentices have been supported by Winvic’s project team through T Level placements, industry studentships and graduate roles. This includes four students who have successfully transitioned from T Level work placements into apprenticeships with Winvic, demonstrating the strength of the main contractor’s early careers pipeline and long-term commitment to development local talent. Community impact initiatives included a Magical Santa’s Grotto for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, canal clean-up efforts, and charity fundraising events that raised over ?7,500. Long term educational partnerships with Aston University, Walsall College, BMET and South and City College Birmingham alongside local schools such as Erdington Academy, have seen the project being used to inspire the next generation. 22 education engagement events were delivered to over 400 students, including interactive workshops that developed with students as they progressed through education and site visits showcasing the latest industry innovations. Mark Jones, Managing Director of Multi-Room at Winvic Construction, said: “The completion of Crown Place is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved. From pioneering new construction technologies to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety, this project demonstrates the results of our strong collaborative partnership with Crown Student Living, Yugo and our supply chain partners.”  “Crown Place also marks a landmark moment for Winvic, taking our total delivery beyond 15,000 beds across our multi-room sector – a milestone that reflects the scale of our sector expertise and the trust our clients have in us. Delivering Birmingham’s tallest student accommodation building on such a constrained site demanded innovation, collaboration and absolute commitment from the entire project team. We are proud to hand over a landmark development that will set new benchmarks for student living in the city.” Alan Pulver, Director at Crown Student Living, said: “The completion of Crown Place marks a significant milestone for Crown Student Living. This landmark development sets a new benchmark for student living in Birmingham, combining high-quality design with carefully considered spaces that foster a strong sense of community. Through close collaboration with Winvic and Yugo, we have delivered a development that meets the expectations of modern students and adds real value to the city and its residents”. Robin Moorcroft, Senior Vice President of Commercial at Yugo, said: “We are thrilled by the completion of Crown Place, as the space represents the high-quality student accommodation Yugo is proud to manage. At Yugo, we go beyond housing; we’re committed to creating vibrant, sustainable, and supportive communities where students can truly thrive, and Crown Place brings that vision to life. “We are proud to be working with institutional-grade partners like Crown to deliver operational excellence at scale with high-quality accommodation, benefiting students and clients across both existing and emerging markets. “With stunning views of the Birmingham skyline, dedicated study areas, and generous communal spaces designed to foster connection and belonging, we’re excited to be welcoming the first wave of students to Crown Place.” Crown Place is now open,

Winvic Construction Ltd has completed Crown Place, a 33-storey purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development in Birmingham, marking the city’s tallest student housing project. Practical completion was achieved on programme in December 2025 for client Crown Student Living global provider Yugo to Aston University, Birmingham City University, and University of Birmingham. The project was designed by ECE Westworks and engineered by Meinhardt. Mark Jones, Managing Director of Multi-Room at Winvic, said: “The completion of Crown Place is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved. From pioneering new construction technologies to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety, this project demonstrates the results of our strong collaborative partnership with Crown Student Living, Yugo and our supply chain partners. “Crown Place also marks a landmark moment for Winvic, taking our total delivery beyond 15,000 beds across our multi-room sector – a milestone that reflects the scale of our sector expertise and the trust our clients have in us. Delivering Birmingham’s tallest student accommodation building on such a constrained site demanded innovation, collaboration and absolute commitment from the entire project team. We are proud to hand over a landmark development that will set new benchmarks for student living in the city.” Crown Place is Winvic’s tallest scheme to date and its first to use a unitised brick façade system, allowing the rapid installation of 2,768 prefabricated panels without external access. The development also saw the UK-first deployment of Skyline Cockpit, enabling the tower crane to be operated remotely from ground level, enhancing safety and efficiency. Advanced technology and sustainable practices were embedded throughout the build, including BIM-linked HP SitePrint robotic setting-out, GAMMA AR augmented reality tools, and the AmpD Enertainer battery system, which cut diesel consumption by 7,645 litres per week. Additional innovations included an open-top goods hoist and KONE jump lift technology for early lift installation and enhanced site logistics. The project also delivered significant social value, creating over 3,800 weeks of employment for Birmingham residents, supporting 14 students and apprentices through T Level placements, industry studentships, and graduate roles, and engaging with local schools and colleges through 22 educational events for over 400 students. Community initiatives included charity fundraising, canal clean-ups, and a Magical Santa’s Grotto for Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

HB Reavis has received planning approval from Lambeth Council’s Planning Applications Committee for the redevelopment of 10 Leake Street in London. The consented scheme will transform an outdated office building into a 233-room purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development, as HB Reavis continues with its strategic asset allocation to the living sectors to create a diversified pan-European portfolio. Known for delivering premium workspace in central London, this approval represents a new chapter for HB Reavis as it diversifies its portfolio and builds on over 30 years of experience in city-centre development. Located 50 metres from London Waterloo Station and within walking distance of several world-leading universities, the scheme responds to clear demand for professionally managed student homes close to campus, where they are needed most over the long term. The proposals received strong support from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Ian Spencer, Director of Residential Services at LSE, said: “The Waterloo development will deliver high-quality, professionally managed accommodation in a location that will appeal to our students. Its proximity to the LSE campus and excellent access to public transport make it very well-suited. I particularly welcome the inclusion of affordable student accommodation, which supports our commitment to widening participation and ensuring access for students from a range of socio-economic backgrounds.“ Designed by PLP Architecture, the plans will include a mix of studios and shared cluster flats. In addition to delivering 233 student homes, the scheme features: Ryan Jakes, Head of Living and Commercial at HB Reavis, said: “Securing planning approval at 10 Leake Street marks a major milestone for HB Reavis as we establish our living portfolio in the UK. We’re targeting uses with strong long-term fundamentals and we see PBSA in central London aligned with leading universities as underpinned by consistent demand, lack of supply and a clear need for high-quality student homes. 10 Leake Street demonstrates how we can unlock value by repurposing the best located buildings and applying our proven approach to design, delivery and ESG into new asset classes. Development of this site demonstrates our long-term commitment to invest in Waterloo and the role we will play in the future of the borough.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Telford Living has submitted plans for a 520-bed purpose-built student accommodation scheme in East London’s Bethnal Green. The UK residential arm of CBRE-owned Trammell Crow Company has lodged a planning application with the London Borough of Tower Hamlets for the development on the former LEB Building site off Cambridge Heath Road. Designed by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, the proposed scheme will comprise a mix of cluster flats and self-contained studios, alongside dedicated student amenity space. Plans also include ground-floor community space and affordable retail units, shaped by pre-application discussions with local stakeholders. Alex Taylor, head of Telford Living, said there is clear and well-documented demand for dedicated student accommodation in this part of Tower Hamlets, given its proximity to major universities and strong transport links. He added that the 520 high-quality PBSA units would help meet this need while delivering a carefully considered building designed to integrate positively with the surrounding neighbourhood and contribute to wider regeneration benefits. The submission follows extensive pre-application engagement with both Tower Hamlets and the Greater London Authority. Telford Living is seeking to unlock another tightly constrained urban site at a time when funding pressures and viability challenges across the capital continue to intensify. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

GRAHAM has secured a £286m contract to deliver the wholesale redevelopment of Cambridge Halls at Manchester Metropolitan University, a scheme being progressed through a joint venture between the University and Unite Students. The long-term partnership will provide 2,302 new student bedrooms as part of a major upgrade of the campus. The existing 1990s accommodation will be demolished and replaced with two multi-storey buildings delivered in two phases, offering a mix of cluster apartments and studios alongside extensive internal and external amenity spaces. The plans include ground-floor commercial units and a new community health centre fronting Cambridge Street to deepen connections between the university and the surrounding neighbourhood. Designed by Cartwright Pickard, the buildings will reach up to 30 storeys and provide high-quality, purpose-built student accommodation. The development targets a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and features a highly efficient building envelope combined with low‑carbon, energy‑saving technologies. Air‑source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, low‑energy heat‑recovery ventilation and advanced intelligent building management systems are specified to significantly cut operational energy use and carbon emissions. Stephen Van den Hoek, Regional Director at GRAHAM, said: “Cambridge Halls is a significant and complex regeneration project that will transform this part of the campus. We are proud to have been appointed to work with Manchester Metropolitan University and Unite Students to deliver high-quality, sustainable accommodation that supports student wellbeing and long-term performance. Our team is looking forward to working collaboratively with all partners as the scheme moves forward.” Demolition is under way, with main construction due to start later this year. Phase one is scheduled to complete in 2029, followed by phase two in 2030. CGIs: Virtual Planit. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Abode Student has unveiled an £80 million purpose-built student accommodation portfolio spanning Birmingham and Nottingham, positioning affordability and location at the heart of its growth strategy for 2026 and beyond. The Manchester-based developer, led by founder Ashley Ladson, will deliver 525 beds across two schemes: a 317-bed development in Birmingham’s Knowledge Quarter and a 208-bed scheme in Nottingham, just three minutes’ walk from Nottingham Trent University. Rents will start from £175 per week in Birmingham and £198 per week in Nottingham, reflecting a deliberate focus on accessible pricing in prime Russell Group city markets. The investment case is equally compelling. The portfolio is targeting a 5.75 per cent net initial yield, rising to 6.2 per cent on practical completion, with projected occupancy levels exceeding 96 per cent. Nottingham is already forecasting 40 per cent pre-bookings 18 months ahead of opening, significantly outperforming regional averages and underlining demand for well-located, sensibly priced accommodation. Abode Student’s strategy responds to a noticeable shift in the PBSA sector. As students and families become more cost-conscious, proximity to campus is increasingly valued above high-end amenities. Ladson believes the opportunity lies in regional university cities rather than an increasingly saturated London market. “Students prioritise location over luxury,” he said. “They want accommodation that is within walking distance of campus and priced realistically. Our focus is on delivering exactly that, without compromising on design quality.” Central to this approach is a partnership with interior designer Miminat Shodeinde, founder of Miminat Designs. Together, they have developed a ‘Refined Durability’ philosophy, specifying long-lasting, high-performance materials that reduce maintenance cycles and lifecycle costs. The aim is to demonstrate that good design and affordability are not mutually exclusive. The two schemes, Abode Student Wireworks in Birmingham and Abode Student Leatherworks in Nottingham, have secured detailed planning consent, with construction scheduled to begin in November 2026 and completion targeted for September 2028. Christopher Dee LLP has been appointed to advise on funding. Sustainability also underpins the developments, which are targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings. Measures include air source heat pumps, rainwater harvesting, biodiversity net gain and green travel infrastructure. Looking ahead, Abode Student is pursuing further opportunities in Manchester, Sheffield, Leeds and Bristol, signalling a broader regional expansion strategy anchored by strong university cities and enduring student demand. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Contractor Graham has secured the £286 million contract to redevelop the Cambridge Halls student campus for Manchester Metropolitan University, marking a major step forward in the transformation of the city’s student accommodation offer. The scheme, which will deliver more than 2,300 new student bedrooms, is being brought forward through a joint venture between the University and Unite Students. It represents one of the most significant higher education residential developments currently planned in Manchester. The project will involve the demolition of the existing 1990s-era accommodation to make way for two new multi-storey buildings rising to 30 storeys. Delivered across two phases, the development will provide a mix of cluster apartments and self-contained studios, alongside a range of internal and external amenity spaces designed to enhance student wellbeing and foster a strong sense of community. In addition to residential provision, the scheme will incorporate ground-floor commercial units and a new community health centre fronting Cambridge Street. This element is intended to strengthen connections between the campus and the surrounding neighbourhood, creating a more integrated and accessible urban environment. Designed by Cartwright Pickard, the development is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, reflecting a strong emphasis on sustainability and long-term environmental performance. The buildings will feature a highly thermally efficient fabric, supported by a comprehensive suite of low-carbon and energy-efficient technologies. Air source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels and low-energy heat recovery ventilation systems will be integrated with advanced intelligent building management systems. Together, these measures are expected to significantly reduce operational energy demand and carbon emissions over the lifecycle of the development. Stephen Van den Hoek, Regional Director at Graham, confirmed that construction is scheduled to commence later this year. Phase one is due for completion in 2029, with phase two following in 2030, reshaping this key gateway site and setting a new benchmark for sustainable student accommodation in Manchester. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals