The Aspire consortium — comprising Hochtief PPP Solutions, Cityheart and Vinci Building — has secured a 50-year design, build, finance and operate contract for student accommodation at the University of Southampton.
Under the agreement, the consortium will act as a long-term delivery partner, providing integrated design, construction, energy and facilities management services to create affordable student housing and study spaces.
Hochtief said the total value of the contract to the consortium is around €200m (approximately £170m).
By 2029, the project will deliver 1,092 new student beds across the Connaught and South Stoneham campuses. It will also refurbish 399 rooms at Archers Road and restore the Grade II* listed Stoneham House, which will be repurposed as a living and learning space for students.
Construction will be carried out by Vinci Building, with design led by Willmore Iles Architects. Facilities management will be handled by Aspire Students Limited once the development is completed.
The university’s estates director, Kevin Argent, said: “Aspire was selected following a rigorous process that demonstrated the consortium’s ability to combine financial strength, long-term partnership working and proven expertise in delivering high-quality, sustainable student accommodation at scale.
“As a leading university dedicated to academic excellence, we aim to attract a diverse and talented student body, targeting 30,000 students by 2031. Partnering with Aspire will help us deliver high-quality, affordable and sustainable student accommodation, supporting our growth and long-term estate value.”
Ian Prescott, managing director of Hochtief PPP Solutions (UK & Ireland), said: “Aspire brings together a team of experts with an incredible pedigree in development, delivery, heritage buildings, finance and the operation of student accommodation. Working in partnership with the University of Southampton, we will deliver unrivalled student accommodation and facilities as well as the preservation of the historic Stoneham House.”