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

Leading development company MRP has launched Broadway Studios, a 432-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Glasgow city centre. Puma Property Finance has provided £58m development finance with construction being delivered by McAleer & Rushe Contracts. Scheduled for completion in August 2026, the building will be operated by Prestige Student Living, opening in time for the 2026/27 academic year. Broadway Studios will be the first student development in Glasgow to fully align with the city’s new PBSA spatial standards, setting a benchmark for quality and compliance in the city. Designed with sustainability and resilience at its core, the scheme targets BREEAM Excellent and an EPC rating of A, while exceeding Glasgow City Council’s energy efficiency requirements by 20% (Gold Level). The building also surpasses the city’s 20% renewable energy target, incorporating air-source heat pumps and high-performance building materials to deliver long-term operational efficiency. While fully compliant with Scottish building regulations, the project has been proactively aligned with the principles of the new English Building Safety Act, ensuring the development is future-proofed against evolving regulatory and investor requirements. In addition, connectivity and future-readiness are central to the design. Broadway Studios is targeting WiredScore Platinum, the global standard for digital infrastructure, recognising exceptional resilience, wireless performance, and future-proofed technology provision. Residents will benefit from a sophisticated, contemporary interior design and extensive shared amenities, including a rooftop sky lounge, fitness suite, cinema, gym, private dining, and games facilities – all within a secure and vibrant environment. This is MRP’s second debt funded PBSA asset, following the successful delivery, operation, and stabilised asset sale of The Place in Nottingham. The scheme also represents MRP’s second phase of development at Renfield Street, following the completion of the Maldron Hotel in 2021, which was forward-funded by Abrdn. Shane McBride, Development Director at MRP, commented: “Broadway Studios exemplifies MRP’s strategy of delivering high-quality, operationally resilient PBSA in undersupplied university cities. Glasgow’s student market continues to face a structural shortage of accommodation, and this development responds directly to that demand with a future-proofed asset underpinned by strong ESG credentials.  “Our decision to retain and operate the building to stabilisation reflects our confidence in both the long-term fundamentals of the PBSA sector and Glasgow’s position as a world-class education hub. We are delighted to be working with Puma Property Finance on this flagship scheme and look forward to building on this partnership as we continue to expand our PBSA platform.” Kevin Davidson, Managing Director at Puma Property Finance, commented: “Having historically funded successful developments with McAleer & Rushe as main contractor and built a wider relationship with the group, we at Puma Property Finance are delighted to be providing our first financing to MRP. Broadway Studios not only reinforces our commitment to backing schemes committed to ESG excellence but also sets the benchmark for modern PBSA developments. “We look forward to working with the excellent team at MRP to see the scheme reach its completion in time for the 26/27 academic year and further developing our important partnership to support the growth of their PBSA platform. We continue to have a strong appetite for lending in Scotland and supporting the PBSA market.” Shane McCullagh, Director at McAleer & Rushe, commented: “We’re delighted to be entrusted as Construction Partner to deliver this landmark PBSA scheme in Glasgow for MRP. Broadways Studios not only serves as an excellent addition to our growing portfolio of prominent student developments across the UK, but also strengthens our strong pipeline of ongoing large-scale projects across Scotland’s central belt. “With the strength of our experienced teams and trusted partners, we look forward to delivering safe, sustainable student homes that will make a lasting contribution to the city.” With its combination of premium design, robust ESG performance, and policy-compliant spatial standards, Broadway Studios is set to become a landmark student living destination in Glasgow and a benchmark for future PBSA development in the city. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

THE LATEST purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) from Cassidy Group Ltd has moved closer to completion with its official topping out ceremony. Funded by Zorin Finance, the 419-studio apartments Beckton House in Beeston, adjacent to the University of Nottingham, will be operated by Fresh and will open its doors for the September 2026/27 academic year. Once completed, the centrally located development will provide studio accommodation for students of Nottingham’s two universities – both of which are linked to the building by the city’s main tram line which conveniently stops at the main entrance. The five-storey block is currently under construction with contractor Winvic, with the early completion of the building’s structural frame which has been marked with a traditional topping out ceremony last week. Patric Cassidy, director at Cassidy Group Ltd said: “Topping out is a significant milestone for any project, and to have reached this stage ahead of programme is testament to the work of Winvic and our trusted team of consultants.” “The decision to go with 100% of studios was due to local market demand and the shortage of quality accommodation in this area. The design and specification of what will be an EPC ‘A’ rated energy efficient building speaks for itself and with excellent transport links, this represents a new chapter in student accommodation within the area.” Vinod Vijaya, lending director at Zorin Finance said: “The key driver for financing these developments is to understand who you are lending to, and with Cassidy Group we see a highly organised, fully motivated team that does in depth analysis before taking a scheme on. It’s incredibly helpful when you see a team that performs in that synchronised way – it shows us as a lender that a developer is clearly driven and believes in what they want to deliver.” Patric Cassidy said: “Having been in the development sector for more than 40 years, we’ve built a tried and tested approach to taking schemes forward and with a portfolio of 3,000 student beds and 1,000 apartments across England, we’ve got a build programme for the next two-to-three years that is really exciting and hope to work closely with Vinod and his team at Zorin again. “Having employed Knight Frank to source senior debt funding and selected Zorin from a large number of offers, we are very impressed with their experience in this sector and their speed and professional approach compared to other lenders.” Beckton House is one of several student accommodation schemes being worked on by Cassidy Group across England, and one of their first ventures into the developer/owner and operator world. Cassidy said: “We’re keen to find more investment partners to work with and would like to acquire more sites for both PBSA and build-to-rent schemes. We are also actively looking for large-scale single-family housing sites as we see a real opportunity in this growing sector. We’d like to work with landowners to use our 40-year pedigree to deliver further large-scale residential schemes which in turn, will help relieve some of the pressure of the ever-growing housing crisis.” For more information on Beckton House, visit becktonhouse.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Study Inn, the privately owned operator, developer, and manager of premium student accommodation, is pleased to report a 95% occupancy across its seven properties in six leading university cities — Leeds, Leicester, Exeter, Bristol, Nottingham, and Loughborough — for the 2025/26 academic year. This achievement highlights Study Inn’s strong performance and value-added proposition, as the company continues to deliver premium, all-inclusive student living experiences that prioritise quality, wellbeing, and service excellence. Its flexible rental strategy attracts a wide range of budgets and demographics. Matt Shakespeare, Managing Director of Operations at Study Inn, commented: “Achieving 95% occupancy across our portfolio reflects the strength of our model and our ability to meet the diverse needs of both International and domestic students nationwide. Our flexible, high-quality offering continues to attract residents seeking a premium life experience supported by service, comfort, and community at a price point that represents exceptional value for money”. Recent data from UCAS and HEPI points to ongoing strength in the UK higher education market, with total UCAS applicants rising to 665,070 in the 2025 cycle — up 1.3% year-on-year — and UK 18-year-old applicants reaching a record 328,390, an increase of 2.2%. UCAS also projects that growth in the UK’s 18-year-old population will continue to drive additional applicants over the coming years, supporting robust future demand for quality student accommodation. Study Inn’s success is underpinned by its vertically integrated business model, which provides full control over acquisition, design, development, and operations. This allows the group to lead the market in terms of innovation in its quality of product and operating model. The company’s all-inclusive offering includes; utilities, award winning internet, fully equipped kitchens, towels, bedding, and housekeeping. Premium shared lounges, vibrant social spaces, and landscaped outdoor areas, further enrich community life and enhance the overall student experience. Study Inn has achieved strong annual growth over all of its assets since inception of the brand. Current average achieved weekly rent is £226, and is forecasted to increase in 2026/27. Looking ahead to its next generation of Study Inn’s — currently in design — the brand will continue to innovate and react to resident needs to drive a continued strong performance in the sector. “These are exciting times for Study Inn,” added Shakespeare. “With our experience, adaptability, and continued investment in quality, we’re perfectly positioned to capitalise on the macro favourable market conditions whist remaining very responsive to the micro market conditions in each city and deliver strong occupancy and sustained growth across our portfolio’s.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Work to develop a £30 million student accommodation project at St Gabriel’s Court in Manchester is now complete. Located at Oxford Place, adjacent to Oxford Road and south of the city centre the work was carried out by McLaren Construction Midlands and North. Delivered on behalf of McLaren Property, the 321-bed development will improve the city’s student housing provision. The two-acre site is close to the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University campuses. Designed to improve 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. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals