Residential : Student Accommodation News
Planning Approved for Student Accommodation at the Merrion Centre in Leeds

Planning Approved for Student Accommodation at the Merrion Centre in Leeds

Major milestone reached in the next phase of the Merrion Centre’s evolution Leeds-based property investor and developer, Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS), has received planning approval from Leeds City Council for a landmark student accommodation scheme at the Merrion Centre, further cementing the centre’s position as a dynamic, mixed-use city

Read More »
Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Downing has secured planning approval for a major twin-tower development in North Acton, West London, marking another milestone in the area’s transformation into a high-density urban centre. The Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) has given the go-ahead for a 668-unit scheme that will replace the existing Holiday

Read More »
Winvic to Deliver Landmark Student Scheme in Coventry’s Westwood Hub

Winvic to Deliver Landmark Student Scheme in Coventry’s Westwood Hub

Winvic Construction has secured a major contract to deliver a 544-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Coventry, marking a new partnership with developer Gilltown. Located at Westwood Business Park, just a mile from the University of Warwick, the development—dubbed Progress House—will transform the site of a former office building

Read More »
Unite Students and Manchester University to launch homes

Unite Students and Manchester University to launch homes

Unite Students has entered into a joint venture (JV) agreement with Manchester Metropolitan University to deliver 2,300 new student beds in the heart of Manchester, in a development valued at approximately £390 million. The strategic partnership will see Unite Students hold a 70% stake in the JV and act as

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 332 : Sept 2025

Residential : Student Accommodation News

Crown Place Birmingham Winvic

Birmingham’s Tallest Student Accommodation Building, Crown Place Reaches Topping Out Milestone

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 announced the topping out of Crown Place, Birmingham – a landmark 33-storey purpose-built student accommodation scheme for client Crown Student Living. The milestone ceremony – attended by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal – celebrated the topping out of Crown Place Birmingham which is now the tallest student accommodation building in the city. Representatives from Winvic, Crown Student Living, Corvette Capital, student housing brand and operator Yugo and funders Beaufort Capital, attended the ceremony, which took place on Level 32 of the tower, celebrating the development reaching its highest structural point and solidifying it as an iconic addition to Birmingham’s skyline. Attendees from the design consultants, Birmingham universities, industry consultants and members of the local community were also invited to visit the development and take a tour of the marketing suite. Winvic is partnering with engineer, Meinhardt, and architect, ECE Westworks to deliver the £85 million, 814-bed student scheme on Lancaster Street, conveniently located near Birmingham city centre and within easy reach of Aston University, Birmingham City University, and the University of Birmingham. Crown Place which will be operated by Yugo, Europe’s biggest student housing provider, will offer a variety of studios, cluster flats and duplexes, alongside over 13,000 sq ft of extensive amenity spaces. Standout features of the accommodation include a sky lounge, cinema room, karaoke room, private dining areas and a gym – setting new standards for student living in the city. The scheme will complete in December 2025, with Yugo preparing to welcome students from January 2026. Since breaking ground, the project has led the way in innovation with this milestone following Winvic’s successful UK-first deployment of Skyline Cockpit – a remote tower crane control system operated from ground level to improve safety and operational efficiency. Integrated advanced technology and sustainable practices were implemented across the project, including the use of HP SitePrint robotic layout and GAMMA AR tools for enhanced precision, as well as the AmpD Enertainer battery system to cut diesel use by 7,645 litres weekly, supporting greener operations. Winvic prioritised social value at the Crown Place scheme, supporting local communities through employment, education, and charity. Achieving outstanding CCS scores of 49 and a Silver National Site Award, the team has delivered over 2,900 weeks of employment to Birmingham residents into new roles on site. Since starting the project, 13 students and apprentices have been supported at Crown Place including T Level placements, Year In Industry students and graduates. The opportunities provided has enabled them to develop and grow their academic and practical skills with support from the site team. Initiatives include a Magical Santa’s Grotto for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, canal clean-up efforts, and charity events raising over £4,800. Educational partnerships with Aston University, Walsall College, BMET and South and City College Birmingham, plus local schools have seen the site being used to inspire the next generation, delivering interactive workshops and showcasing the newest innovations. Mark Jones, Managing Director of Multi-Room at Winvic Construction, said: “Topping out Crown Place Birmingham is a proud moment for all involved. This project is not only Winvic’s tallest scheme to date, but one of our most innovative – where new cutting-edge technologies have been at the heart of this project resulting in industry and business firsts – driving enhanced efficiency, safety, precision and programme certainty. “The quality of the build is testament to the collaborative approach between Crown Student Living, Yugo, our supply chain, and our exceptional Winvic team and the topping out ceremony is a celebration of the incredible progress made. We now look forward to continuing works at this industry-leading development ready for practical completion in December.” Alan Pulver, Director at Crown Student Living, said: “This is a significant milestone not just for Crown Student Living, but for the city of Birmingham as a whole. Set to redefine student living with its exceptional design, amenities, and location, reaching the topping out stage at Crown Place has been a proud moment, made possible by the collaboration and expertise of our project partners. We’re excited to see this flagship development come to life and to welcome students to a truly elevated experience in 2026.” Robin Moorcroft, Senior Vice President – Commercial, Yugo, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the launch of Crown Place Birmingham, a space that 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. Crown Place brings this vision to life with stunning views of the Birmingham skyline, dedicated study areas, and generous communal spaces designed to foster connection and belonging. “By working with institutional-grade partners like Crown we’re able to invest and deliver operational excellence at scale – benefiting students and clients across both existing and emerging markets. We’re particularly excited to welcome students to Crown Place when it opens its doors in January.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »

Birmingham’s Tallest Student Accommodation Building, Crown Place Reaches Topping Out Milestone

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 announced the topping out of Crown Place, Birmingham – a landmark 33-storey purpose-built student accommodation scheme for client Crown Student Living. The milestone ceremony – attended by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal – celebrated the topping out of Crown Place Birmingham which is now the tallest student accommodation building in the city. Representatives from Winvic, Crown Student Living, Corvette Capital, student housing brand and operator Yugo and funders Beaufort Capital, attended the ceremony, which took place on Level 32 of the tower, celebrating the development reaching its highest structural point and solidifying it as an iconic addition to Birmingham’s skyline. Attendees from the design consultants, Birmingham universities, industry consultants and members of the local community were also invited to visit the development and take a tour of the marketing suite. Winvic is partnering with engineer, Meinhardt, and architect, ECE Westworks to deliver the £85 million, 814-bed student scheme on Lancaster Street, conveniently located near Birmingham city centre and within easy reach of Aston University, Birmingham City University, and the University of Birmingham. Crown Place which will be operated by Yugo, Europe’s biggest student housing provider, will offer a variety of studios, cluster flats and duplexes, alongside over 13,000 sq ft of extensive amenity spaces. Standout features of the accommodation include a sky lounge, cinema room, karaoke room, private dining areas and a gym – setting new standards for student living in the city. The scheme will complete in December 2025, with Yugo preparing to welcome students from January 2026. Since breaking ground, the project has led the way in innovation with this milestone following Winvic’s successful UK-first deployment of Skyline Cockpit – a remote tower crane control system operated from ground level to improve safety and operational efficiency. Integrated advanced technology and sustainable practices were implemented across the project, including the use of HP SitePrint robotic layout and GAMMA AR tools for enhanced precision, as well as the AmpD Enertainer battery system to cut diesel use by 7,645 litres weekly, supporting greener operations. Winvic prioritised social value at the Crown Place scheme, supporting local communities through employment, education, and charity. Achieving outstanding CCS scores of 49 and a Silver National Site Award, the team has delivered over 2,900 weeks of employment to Birmingham residents into new roles on site. Since starting the project, 13 students and apprentices have been supported at Crown Place including T Level placements, Year In Industry students and graduates. The opportunities provided has enabled them to develop and grow their academic and practical skills with support from the site team. Initiatives include a Magical Santa’s Grotto for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, canal clean-up efforts, and charity events raising over £4,800. Educational partnerships with Aston University, Walsall College, BMET and South and City College Birmingham, plus local schools have seen the site being used to inspire the next generation, delivering interactive workshops and showcasing the newest innovations. Mark Jones, Managing Director of Multi-Room at Winvic Construction, said: “Topping out Crown Place Birmingham is a proud moment for all involved. This project is not only Winvic’s tallest scheme to date, but one of our most innovative – where new cutting-edge technologies have been at the heart of this project resulting in industry and business firsts – driving enhanced efficiency, safety, precision and programme certainty. “The quality of the build is testament to the collaborative approach between Crown Student Living, Yugo, our supply chain, and our exceptional Winvic team and the topping out ceremony is a celebration of the incredible progress made. We now look forward to continuing works at this industry-leading development ready for practical completion in December.” Alan Pulver, Director at Crown Student Living, said: “This is a significant milestone not just for Crown Student Living, but for the city of Birmingham as a whole. Set to redefine student living with its exceptional design, amenities, and location, reaching the topping out stage at Crown Place has been a proud moment, made possible by the collaboration and expertise of our project partners. We’re excited to see this flagship development come to life and to welcome students to a truly elevated experience in 2026.” Robin Moorcroft, Senior Vice President – Commercial, Yugo, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the launch of Crown Place Birmingham, a space that 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. Crown Place brings this vision to life with stunning views of the Birmingham skyline, dedicated study areas, and generous communal spaces designed to foster connection and belonging. “By working with institutional-grade partners like Crown we’re able to invest and deliver operational excellence at scale – benefiting students and clients across both existing and emerging markets. We’re particularly excited to welcome students to Crown Place when it opens its doors in January.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Planning Approved for Student Accommodation at the Merrion Centre in Leeds

Planning Approved for Student Accommodation at the Merrion Centre in Leeds

Major milestone reached in the next phase of the Merrion Centre’s evolution Leeds-based property investor and developer, Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS), has received planning approval from Leeds City Council for a landmark student accommodation scheme at the Merrion Centre, further cementing the centre’s position as a dynamic, mixed-use city destination. The approved plans will see the transformation of Wade House, a 13-storey vacant 1960s office building, into high-quality, purpose-built student accommodation. In addition, the scheme includes a striking new 37-storey new build tower on the adjacent ‘100MC’ site. Together, the buildings will deliver 1,039  student bedrooms in a mix of studio and cluster apartments, complemented by a host of best-in-class amenities, including residents’ lounges, co-working and meeting spaces, a cinema, gym, karaoke room, external terraces, and secure cycle spaces. This exciting project marks the first time in its 61-year history that the Merrion Centre will incorporate residential use, reflecting TCS’s long-term strategy to diversify and future-proof the estate. Craig Burrow, Group Property Director for TCS, commented: “We are delighted that resolution to grant planning approval has now been received for our proposed scheme at the Merrion Centre, marking a significant milestone in the continued evolution of this iconic city centre destination. “It has been over three years since our initial pre-application discussions began, and we have worked closely with Leeds City Council and key stakeholders throughout to carefully refine the design and ensure the scheme is both sensitive and sustainable. “We are proud to be repurposing Wade House in a way that respects its heritage, while unlocking the opportunity to provide high-quality, purpose-built student accommodation that will support Leeds’ growing population. This development is a vital part of our long-term vision to further diversify the Merrion estate, continuing to evolve our retail, leisure, office and now residential offering to meet the changing needs of the city.” Edward Ziff, Chairman and Chief Executive of TCS, added: “The approval of this significant scheme is a pivotal step in our journey to further enhance the Merrion Centre. We have consistently evolved the estate to meet the demands of the city, and this next phase represents a natural progression in our commitment to delivering a vibrant, sustainable mixed-use destination at the heart of Leeds.” The Merrion Centre, which originally opened in 1964, remains one of Leeds’ busiest and most iconic destinations, welcoming over 9 million internal visitors in 2024. The centre offers over 100 retail, office, and leisure units, as well as direct proximity to the first direct Arena and key transport links. This latest scheme builds on TCS’s continued investment in the Merrion estate. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
McAleer & Rushe, MRP, and VITA Group have topped out a new £85 million PBSA development in Birmingham

McAleer & Rushe, MRP, and VITA Group have topped out a new £85 million PBSA development in Birmingham

McAleer & Rushe, MRP, and Vita Group have celebrated a significant construction milestone with the topping out of their new £85 million purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development on Gough Street, Birmingham. The landmark scheme, constructed by design & build contractor McAleer & Rushe, is being developed by MRP under a forward funding agreement with urban regeneration specialist, Vita Group. The topping out ceremony brought together key stakeholders and guests to celebrate this significant stage of progress. Once complete, the development will provide 540 premium Vita Student studio apartments across two towers of 10 and 29 storeys. Architecturally distinctive, the scheme is defined by a striking zig-zag façade and a modern design approach with sustainability at its core. Residents will benefit from an exceptional range of communal amenities, including private dining rooms, a gym, basketball court, co-study spaces, a social hub, and games rooms, creating a vibrant student living environment. This development is among a series of collaborations between McAleer & Rushe and Vita Group, including the award-winning Bruce StreetschemeinBelfast, developed by MRP, as well as ongoing projects at NewWaverley in EdinburghandIndia Street in Glasgow. Designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, the scheme places a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Features include more than 200 cycle parking spaces, multiple outdoor terraces, and a rooftop area on level 29. Additionally, a landscaped roof terrace on level 10 will incorporate a bio-green garden with wildflower beds, crushed stone piles, and stacked tree stems to promote biodiversity and create habitats for urban wildlife. Centrally located on Gough Street, near Suffolk Street Queensway, the scheme features excellent connectivity, with Birmingham New Street Station, The Mailbox, and The Cube within walking distance, making it highly attractive to students with easy access to local universities and amenities. McAleer & Rushe recently achieved an ‘Outstanding’ Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) score of 47, including two best practice points, recognising excellence in site management, community engagement, and sustainability. The project remains on track for completion in Summer 2026, ready for occupation by students for the 2026/2027 academic year. Stephen Surphlis, Managing Director at MRP said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the magnificent milestone of the Vita Student, Gough Street topping out. This scheme reflects MRP’s commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable spaces that support the city’s ambition and support Birmingham’s growing student population with first-class housing.” Mark Diamond, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe, commented: “We are delighted to celebrate the topping out of Vita Gough Street, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of this exceptional purpose-built student accommodation scheme in Birmingham. Reaching this key achievement is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of our project team, partners, and supply chain, whose collective efforts continue to drive the project forward. “We’re proud to be playing a central role in bringing to life a vibrant living environment that meets the growing demand for high-quality student accommodation in the city. As we move toward completion in Summer 2026, we remain committed to delivering the development to the highest standards, with a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainability.” Max Bielby, Chief Operating Officer, Vita Group commented: “Birmingham has always been an important city for Vita Group, and the topping out of our latest development on Gough Street marks a proud moment in deepening our connection in the city. Following the success of Vita Student Pebble Mill, we’re excited to expand our presence in a city known for its vibrant student population and world-renowned universities. This new scheme is also a reflection of our strong and trusted partnership with McAleer & Rushe, with whom we continue to deliver high-quality, design-led student residences across the UK. Together, we’re creating exceptional living environments that prioritise wellbeing, sustainability, and a true sense of community for the staff and students there.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Green Light for Twin-Tower Scheme in Regenerating North Acton

Downing has secured planning approval for a major twin-tower development in North Acton, West London, marking another milestone in the area’s transformation into a high-density urban centre. The Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) has given the go-ahead for a 668-unit scheme that will replace the existing Holiday Inn Express adjacent to North Acton Underground station. The plans form part of the broader North Acton Town Centre Cluster masterplan aimed at revitalising the area into a vibrant neighbourhood hub. The approved project includes a 31-storey purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) tower with 609 beds, and a separate 17-storey build-to-rent (BTR) block offering 59 residential units. The scheme also incorporates 35% affordable housing and 255 sqm of commercial space at ground level. Residents will benefit from outdoor amenity areas, though no on-site parking is planned. Downing submitted revised proposals in September 2024 following extensive collaboration with the local authority. The updated designs aim to contribute positively to the evolving townscape of North Acton while addressing housing demand. The taller PBSA tower will feature anodised aluminium rainscreen cladding combined with panels of clear and patterned glazing, delivering a modern visual identity. Meanwhile, the smaller BTR building will be clad in terracotta with blue anodised aluminium detailing and clear-framed windows. Martin Fenlon, associate projects director at Downing, highlighted the strategic importance of the location: “Situated just outside of the city centre, North Acton is becoming a hotbed of regeneration. Its vibrant community, excellent transport links and close proximity to leading universities make it the ideal location for high-quality student accommodation and rental housing.” Fenlon added that the development will help meet growing demand for housing among both domestic and international students attending nearby institutions such as Imperial College London, the University of West London and the University of the Arts. The project represents a significant investment in West London’s future and reflects growing interest in the area’s regeneration potential. Downing’s scheme is expected to play a key role in shaping North Acton’s identity as a thriving, mixed-use district over the coming years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Winvic onsite to deliver major 544-bed PBSA scheme in Coventry for Gilltown

Winvic onsite to deliver major 544-bed PBSA scheme in Coventry for Gilltown

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and construction of private and public sector works and civil engineering projects has announced its appointment to deliver a new 544-bed Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) scheme on Westwood Way in Coventry, for new client Gilltown. Located a mile from the University of Warwick campus, Progress House involves the demolition of an existing office building to make way for six-storeys of contemporary student accommodation. The scheme will include a 4,000 sq ft ground floor commercial unit to serve both students and the local community. Positioned on Westwood Business Park, Progress House will add to the existing student accommodation provision within the park and will be a much-needed addition to the student village community – as demand for accommodation remains high. The development will include premium amenities comprising a gym, fitness studio, cinema, dinner party room, games lounge, study rooms and garden lounge, alongside en-suite bedrooms designed to provide high-quality living standards. An external sports area and petanque court will also feature. With sustainability at the forefront of Winvic’s operations, Progress House will be targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating and a WiredScore Platinum certification. Working in partnership with Gilltown and Coventry City Council, Winvic will deliver social value through the scheme, creating a positive impact for the local community. This will include creating opportunities for local employment, training, apprenticeships and work experience,  while also supporting the local economy by maximising opportunities for SMEs and social enterprises such as Nuneaton Signs. The project will leave a meaningful and lasting legacy in Coventry by supporting community organisations and promoting green and sustainable practices. The development is set for completion in Summer 2027, ready to welcome students for the 2027/28 academic year. Mark Jones, Managing Director for Multi-room at Winvic, said: “Coventry has a significant and vibrant student community at Westwood Business Park, with students choosing it for its location and social and academic facilities. Progress House will sit at the heart of this community, giving students a high-spec, sustainable and well-connected place to call home. “We are pleased to be working in partnership with Gilltown to deliver high-quality accommodation and create a positive legacy in this student community. Seeing the creation of the social value element of this scheme come to life as well as the new facility itself is something all parties are looking forward to. It’s a reflection of the Winvic Way ethos and our commitment to Doing It Right across all of our operations.” James Gillespie at Gilltown, said: “We are pleased to see work commence on this, our latest exciting PBSA development. Westwood Business Park is an ideal location for student housing and we are delighted to collaborate with Winvic Construction whose expertise and dedication to quality make them an ideal construction partner.” Winvic Construction specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects and has delivered 12,000 beds since 2009 within its Multi-room sector, spanning Build-to-Rent, student accommodation, and bespoke hotel schemes. For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit https://www.winvic.co.uk/?utm_source=pr&utm_medium=pressrelease&utm_campaign=progresshouse. Join Winvic on social media – visit X (Formally Twitter) @WinvicLtd – and LinkedIn Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Winvic to Deliver Landmark Student Scheme in Coventry’s Westwood Hub

Winvic to Deliver Landmark Student Scheme in Coventry’s Westwood Hub

Winvic Construction has secured a major contract to deliver a 544-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Coventry, marking a new partnership with developer Gilltown. Located at Westwood Business Park, just a mile from the University of Warwick, the development—dubbed Progress House—will transform the site of a former office building into a six-storey, high-spec student community designed with both comfort and sustainability in mind. As well as a 4,000 sq ft commercial unit at ground level to serve students and the surrounding neighbourhood, the scheme boasts an impressive line-up of amenities. These include a gym, fitness studio, cinema room, dinner party space, games lounge, quiet study rooms and a garden lounge. Outdoor features will include a sports area and pétanque court, promoting both wellness and social engagement. Sustainability is central to the project’s design, with Progress House targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating and aiming for WiredScore Platinum certification—underlining its focus on digital connectivity and environmental performance. While the initial planning application was turned down in July 2023 due to local opposition, it was granted approval on appeal in March 2024. The development is now on track for completion in summer 2027, ready for student occupancy in the 2027/28 academic year. Mark Jones, Managing Director for Multi-Room at Winvic, commented:“Coventry is home to a thriving student population, and Westwood Business Park is at the heart of that. Progress House will offer students a modern, connected, and vibrant place to live, while enhancing the wider community. We’re proud to be working alongside Gilltown to deliver not just accommodation, but real social value—this is the Winvic Way in action.” James Gillespie, Co-Owner of Gilltown, added:“This is a key project for us and we’re thrilled to get underway. Westwood Business Park is ideally positioned for student living, and we’re confident that Winvic’s expertise will help us realise our vision for a high-quality, future-proofed development.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Unite and Manchester Met Join Forces for £390m Student Accommodation Revamp

Unite and Manchester Met Join Forces for £390m Student Accommodation Revamp

A major student housing redevelopment is on the cards for Manchester, as Unite Students and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) sign a £390 million joint venture to deliver over 2,300 new student beds. The scheme will see the complete regeneration of the university’s ageing Cambridge Halls site, which will be closed this year. Originally constructed in the 1990s, the current low-rise accommodation blocks – providing around 770 bedrooms – will be demolished to make way for a modern student living complex. Under the terms of the agreement, Unite will hold a 70% stake in the partnership and take on the roles of developer, asset manager and operator. MMU will retain the remaining 30% interest by contributing the land. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with a phased delivery running through to 2030. The first phase, due for completion in September 2029, will comprise 1,126 bedrooms split across a 24-storey tower, two 11-storey buildings, and an eight-storey block. The completed development will ultimately deliver 2,330 purpose-built student rooms – a significant net gain of 1,560 beds. Planning submission is anticipated later this quarter, with final joint venture formation scheduled for late 2025. This is Unite’s second university partnership and forms part of its broader strategy to target key university cities where demand for student accommodation is outstripping supply. In Manchester, for example, there are currently around 3.6 full-time students per available bed – well above the UK average – creating a pressing need for additional, high-quality housing. In a move to ease the transition, Unite has also agreed a five-year nomination agreement with Manchester Met to house 2,550 of its students at other Unite-managed properties during the redevelopment period. A spokesperson for Unite Students said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering modern, sustainable and affordable accommodation that supports students’ wellbeing and enhances their university experience. Once complete, the new scheme is expected to transform the student housing offering in Manchester, supporting MMU’s growth ambitions while helping to meet the city’s growing accommodation needs. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
VITA appoints McAleer & Rushe to deliver new Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Glasgow

VITA appoints McAleer & Rushe to deliver new Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Glasgow

Leading design and build contractor McAleer & Rushe has been appointed by Vita Group to deliver a new 591-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project on India Street in Glasgow. The development will feature high quality Vita Student bedrooms, each featuring integrated kitchens and en-suite shower rooms. The scheme also includes public realm improvements, creating open amenity spaces for both residents and the wider community, while a secure enclosed courtyard and two landscaped roof terraces will provide private outdoor spaces exclusively for residents. Benefiting from a wealth of amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, social and study spaces, and café-style lounges, students can take advantage of Vita Student’s residents’ experience which has been designed to help maximise their life at university, including an on-site operations team delivering regular events, housekeeping and security. The contract award represents the fifth partnership between McAleer & Rushe and urban regeneration specialist Vita Group, which includes the award-winning Bruce Street in Belfast, New Waverley which is currently under construction in Edinburgh, and Gough Street which is progressing rapidly in Birmingham. Located on a 1.28-acre brownfield site, formerly home to the Strathclyde Regional Council office, the development is ideally positioned adjacent to Charing Cross railway station and close to the bustling student areas of Sauchiehall Street and Bath Street, with easy access to the University of Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde. Completion is targeted for July 2027. Mark Diamond, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe said:  “We’re thrilled to be entrusted once again by our long-standing client, Vita Group, to bring forward this landmark scheme in the city of Glasgow. Unrivalled in its location and designed with sustainability in mind, India Street will no doubt serve as a stand-out addition to the city’s student accommodation landscape. Together with all partners, we look forward to breathing new life into this brownfield site to deliver much-needed student homes, revitalising the area for students and the wider community.” Allan Hemphill, Chief Development Officer at Vita Group commented: “We’re delighted to be working again with our partners McAleer & Rushe to shape the plans for 20 India Street, breathing new life into this brownfield site.  India Street marks our second development in the city and emphasises our further commitment to Glasgow where we will continue deliver an accommodation experience that will help students to thrive at this vital time in their university lives.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Unite Students and Manchester University to launch homes

Unite Students and Manchester University to launch homes

Unite Students has entered into a joint venture (JV) agreement with Manchester Metropolitan University to deliver 2,300 new student beds in the heart of Manchester, in a development valued at approximately £390 million. The strategic partnership will see Unite Students hold a 70% stake in the JV and act as developer, asset manager, and operator in the Manchester deal. Manchester Metropolitan will retain a 30% stake, contributing its existing Cambridge Halls site, which currently provides 770 outdated beds and will be closed ahead of redevelopment. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with delivery of the new accommodation phases planned for 2029 and 2030. The project will significantly expand Unite’s footprint in Manchester, increasing its bed count in the city to nearly 8,000 and reinforcing a two-decade-long relationship with the university. To support student housing needs during the redevelopment, Unite Students has also signed a five-year nomination agreement with the university for 2,550 beds in existing Unite properties across the city. A planning application for the redevelopment is expected in the second quarter of 2025, with formal establishment of the JV anticipated by the end of the year. Unite’s equity commitment will be around £125 million, funded internally, with the balance financed through JV-secured debt. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »