In a significant development for the UK purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector, GMI Construction Group has commenced construction on a £29 million residential block situated off Moss Lane East in Manchester. This new student accommodation project, developed by Alumno in partnership with Invesco Real Estate, is set to provide 261 beds and is expected to be completed ahead of the 2027 academic year intake. The site, which offers a prime location overlooking Whitworth Park, is conveniently positioned within walking distance of both Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester campuses.
Planning and Development Insights
The planning approval for this ambitious project was secured in 2023 by Cityside and Alumno, although Cityside exited the project in the previous year. Invesco Real Estate has since taken on the role of owner of the development site, with Alumno tasked with overseeing the delivery of the project. The design of the nine-storey block, which encompasses a total of 50,000 square feet, incorporates 207 cluster bedrooms and 54 studios, catering to the diverse needs of Manchester’s growing student population.
Amenities and Community Impact
The residential block will not only provide essential accommodation but will also feature a listed Georgian villa that will be transformed into an amenity hub. This hub will offer residents access to a range of facilities, including private study areas, collaboration spaces, a cinema, a gym, a wellbeing room, and lounges. These amenities are designed to enhance the student living experience and foster a sense of community among residents.
Sustainability Goals and Industry Collaboration
Alumno is placing a strong emphasis on sustainability with this project, targeting an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A and a BREEAM score of Excellent. This commitment to sustainable development aligns with the increasing focus on eco-friendly practices within the UK PBSA market, reflecting a broader industry trend towards environmentally responsible construction. David Campbell, managing director of Alumno, shared his vision for the project, stating, “Our development will improve the local area through sensitive and coherent design and planning, as well as providing an economic boost to local businesses, delivering much-needed, good-quality accommodation for Manchester’s student population, which includes an element of rooms set at affordable rents.”
Partnerships and Project Management
GMI’s North West regional director, Anthony Judge, highlighted the importance of collaboration in this project. He remarked, “We’ve built a strong and trusted relationship with Alumno over several years, and each project we deliver reinforces our shared commitment to quality, innovation, and creating outstanding spaces for students.” The project team is composed of various experts, including AECOM as project manager and cost manager, Safer Sphere as the Building Safety Act expert, and several other specialists, ensuring compliance with high standards of design and build.
As the UK student accommodation market continues to evolve, this project addresses the pressing demand for quality housing, particularly in a city like Manchester, which has seen significant growth in its student population. The development not only aims to alleviate the undersupply of student housing but also enriches the local community through its thoughtfully designed spaces and amenities.
For those interested in further details, the original planning application can be accessed by searching reference numbers 135544/FO/2022 and 135545/LO/2022 on the Manchester City Council’s planning portal.