Watkin Jones plans October start on Jadebricks’ Manchester PBSA
Enabling works are due to begin before the month is out on the 107-studio student accommodation block off Charles Street, with the contractor aiming to complete the scheme in time for the 2028/2029 academic year.
Watkin Jones has signed on as a delivery partner and will oversee the construction of the 15-storey block for developer Jadebricks. The scheme will occupy a former car park between Maldron Hotel and Bracken House.
Designed by SimpsonHaugh Architects, the project earned a nod from Manchester City Council’s planning committee back in 2024 thanks to the efforts of planner Turley.
The Charles Street scheme marks the first time Watkin Jones and Jadebricks have worked together.
“Jadebricks are excited to be working with Watkin Jones on this outstanding project,” said Mike Bathurst, managing director for Jadebricks.
“Manchester’s universities attract the best and brightest students from around the world and this scheme will offer a truly unique level of quality accommodation in a fabulous location.”
Gwyn Pritchard, managing director for construction at Watkin Jones, added: “This high-quality city-centre opportunity marks our return to Manchester and further strengthens our secured PBSA pipeline – demonstrating the continued confidence our partners place in Watkin Jones’ delivery capability.”
At the time of its 2024 planning permission, the project team included DP Squared, Oxford Archaeology, BPP Energy, GTech Surveys, Hann Tucker Associates, OFR Consultants, Turley Heritage, Curtins, Cushman & Wakefield, Geoassist, E3P, Caldwell, and GIA.
To learn more about the Charles Street PBSA, search using reference 138808/FO/2023 on Manchester City Council’s planning portal.
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