ARK Living Launches First PBSA Development in Canning Town

Rupert WallaceRupert Wallace
7 July 2026
3 min read

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ARK Living has officially launched its latest residence, marking its debut in the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector with the new ARK Canning Town scheme. This development received planning consent at the end of 2022 and is poised to transform student living in East London with its unique offerings. The scheme encompasses 6,100 sq ft of flexible commercial space on the ground floor, complemented by beautifully landscaped public areas.

Scheduled to open in August 2026, just in time for the new academic year, ARK Canning Town will feature 375 thoughtfully designed bedrooms. This development promises students stylish studios and modern ensuite rooms, along with inviting shared spaces and a dynamic social calendar. The architectural design by PRP Architects seamlessly integrates private living with a lively community atmosphere.

Innovative Design and Amenities

Students residing at ARK Canning Town will have access to an impressive suite of shared amenities designed to enhance their university experience. The facilities include a state-of-the-art gym and wellness studio, a yoga studio, a games room, co-working spaces, a podcast studio, a communal kitchen, a lounge, and two rooftop terraces. These spaces are intended to foster academic success, promote active lifestyles, and facilitate social interactions among students.

Whether it’s starting the day with rooftop yoga before lectures, collaborating with peers during late-night study sessions, or enjoying social gatherings with stunning views of the city, ARK Canning Town is tailored to support students’ academic and social wellbeing.

Strategic Location and Connectivity

Located in the well-connected Canning Town area, the development is conveniently situated near an underground station, providing excellent transport links across London. Students will benefit from swift access to central London via the Jubilee line and Docklands Light Railway (DLR). The proximity to key universities, including the University of Greenwich, King’s College London, the University of East London, and Anglia Ruskin University London, adds to the appeal of this location.

Canning Town is also home to a vibrant selection of restaurants and bars located in the newly developed Hallsville Quarter, while nearby attractions like The O2, Hackney Wick, and Stratford offer further dining options and entertainment, along with easy access to shopping at Westfield.

Building a Community

ARK Canning Town is set to host over 250 events annually as part of its community programme. This initiative is designed to help students acclimatise to London life and foster meaningful connections among residents. Each ARK building is envisioned as a hub for collaboration, creativity, and personal development, attracting students keen on a vibrant and connected living experience.

In their commitment to simplify the renting process, ARK Living provides transparent pricing and all-inclusive bills through streamlined membership agreements. Weekly rents begin at £300, with attractive introductory offers available for the first year, including rooms starting from £275 and studios from £362 per week. Additionally, students can benefit from a refer-a-friend scheme, which rewards them with £500 cashback.

Looking ahead, ARK Living has plans for further PBSA developments in Gants Hill and Tottenham Hale, aiming to reshape the student living landscape in London. The third co-living development, located in Shoreditch, is also set to open in August 2026, reinforcing ARK Living’s commitment to providing quality student accommodation.

Companies in this Article

Learn more about the companies featured in this article

Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is a public research university in East Anglia, UK, committed to transforming lives through innovative, inclusive, and entrepreneurial education and research. It offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across its campuses in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough, and Writtle, with a strong focus on career readiness and impactful research.

Cambridge
ARK Living

ARK Living

ARK Living provides consciously designed co-living spaces in London, offering flexible stays, all-inclusive bills, and shared amenities to foster community and convenience for its residents. They aim to create environments where privacy and community coexist, supporting residents' well-being and growth.

London
PBSA Operators
PRP Architects

PRP Architects

PRP Architects is an interdisciplinary practice specializing in architectural design, urban regeneration, and masterplanning, with over 60 years of experience in housing and mixed-use developments. They focus on creating sustainable, community-enriching places with an emphasis on end-user needs.

London
PBSA Architects
University of East London

University of East London

The University of East London (UEL) is a careers-first institution dedicated to preparing students for future jobs through industry-aligned knowledge, practical skills, and strong employer connections. It focuses on inclusion, innovation, and real-world impact, with research addressing global challenges and contributing to societal betterment.

London
University of Greenwich

University of Greenwich

The University of Greenwich is a multi-faculty institution with campuses in London and Kent, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It emphasizes teaching innovation and excellence, alongside award-winning research that addresses global challenges and benefits businesses and communities. The university aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful careers.

London