Burnley Barnfield delivers UCLan accommodation
The joint venture between Burnley Council and Barnfield Investment Properties has completed a 136-bed student accommodation scheme for occupation by the University of Central Lancashire.
The development sits within the canalside On the Banks project by the council and Barnfield and was delivered by the property company’s construction arm. Student numbers at Burnley’s UCLan campus are expected to rise to 4,000 by 2025.
Designed by architect Campbell Drive Partnership, the scheme comprises 136 en-suite rooms across 29 cluster flats. On the ground floor is a student hub, study room, cinema room and laundry. The building wraps around Sandygate Square and includes two A3 units, which are being marketed by Trevor Dawson.
The design team also included WH Goode on M&E, Toppings Engineers on structural engineering, with Mace acting as employer’s representative.
UCLan took occupation on 14 September and will manage the facility for Burnley Council, with the local authority retaining ownership.
Kate Ingram, strategic head of economy and growth said: “To have delivered this building in such a short timeframe and in such difficult circumstances is extraordinary. It is the first purpose-built student accommodation in the town, and we have deliberately set the bar high and I’m pleased with the results. We have created a great student experience whilst respecting the historic canalside setting”.
Other phases takwn forward by Burnley Barnfield since its 2013 inception include a University Technical College; Sandygate Square, which includes an amphitheatre and canalside terrace; the Slater Terrace office units, 16 apartments, Prince’s Trust offices, a drive-thru restaurant and a bridge linking the UTC with the town centre.