The £286m development will deliver more than 2,300 purpose-built student bedrooms through a joint venture between the University and Unite Students.
The scheme involves the demolition of the existing 1990s accommodation blocks and the construction of two new multi-storey towers rising up to 30 storeys, delivered across two phases. The new buildings will offer a combination of cluster flats and self-contained studios, complemented by a range of internal and external amenity spaces designed to enhance student living.
In addition to residential space, the project will introduce ground-floor commercial units and a new community health centre facing Cambridge Street, helping to strengthen connections between the campus and the wider neighbourhood.
Designed by Cartwright Pickard, the development is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. The buildings will feature a highly thermally efficient envelope and incorporate a broad range of low-carbon and energy-efficient technologies.
Air-source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, low-energy heat-recovery ventilation systems and intelligent building management systems will be integrated to significantly cut operational energy demand and carbon emissions.
Stephen Van den Hoek, regional director at Graham, confirmed that construction is expected to commence later this year. Phase one is scheduled for completion in 2029, with the second phase set to follow in 2030.