Unite, MMU clear Gateway 2 hurdle
The Building Safety Regulator has granted approval for the first 1,000-bedspace phase of construction at the £286m Cambridge Halls project.
Demolition of Manchester Metropolitan University’s former Cambridge Halls student accommodation has now been completed, with structural groundworks now underway on a project that will see 2,300 student bedspaces delivered – around three times as many as the previous blocks on site offered.
Phase one is due to open in time for the 2029/30 academic year, and the 1,201-bed phase two a year later.
Cartwright Pickard is the architect of the project, with Graham securing the job as main contractor in February this year.
Unite Students, the UK’s largest provider of student accommodation, and Manchester Metropolitan University have now had the all-clear from the Building Safety Regulator to begin construction – an enhanced safety test that must now be passed by tall buildings put forward.
The partners said that the joint venture between Unite Students and Manchester Metropolitan University forms an important part of the university’s strategy to build a modern campus for its 44,000 students.
In taking a 30% ownership stake in the joint venture and contributing the value of its land, MMU is able to retain capital for other initiatives in its campus masterplan, including its replacement for All Sains Library – a scaled-back £80m proposal was approved in May.
The Cambridge Halls scheme will offer a mix of cluster flats, studios and postgraduate accommodation. It includes an innovative, large-scale communal kitchen and dining floor.
Amenities will include a rooftop exercise area and sports pitches.
Tom Brewerton, group development director at Unite Students, said: “This is another major milestone in the redevelopment of Cambridge Halls and our exciting, partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University.
“We began the demolition of the former Cambridge Halls accommodation just seven months after agreeing the joint venture framework and are pleased to be able to move to the next phase of development.
“Purpose-built student accommodation is fundamental to the UK’s higher education sector, and this partnership demonstrates the real benefits such collaborations can deliver for students, universities and local communities.”
Andrew Fallon, MMU chief property officer, said: “It is exciting to reach another milestone in the continuing development of our city-centre campus.
“Working alongside Unite Students, Cambridge Halls will deliver next-generation student living at the heart of our university with enhanced shared public areas that will benefit our wider community.
“We look forward to seeing the scheme progress as we deliver on our commitment to delivering an outstanding student experience.”
