Ropemaker has announced the appointment of Fresh to oversee the management of two of its purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) developments located in Edinburgh, Scotland: Meadow Court and Norton’s Student Living. This transition began on 1 July 2026, marking an important step in bolstering Fresh’s role within the Scottish market and expanding its long-standing relationship with Ropemaker.
The Partnership Expansion
Fresh’s new management role signifies a deepening of their existing collaboration with Ropemaker, which previously included the management of The Gorge, a co-living scheme in Exeter, and Verse, a Build to Rent development in Cardiff. Furthermore, Fresh currently oversees several PBSA schemes across major Scottish cities, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Paisley, and Dundee. This strategic appointment highlights Ropemaker’s confidence in Fresh’s ability to enhance the resident experience at established properties, ensuring an exceptional living environment for students.
Sam Scott, the Managing Director of Fresh, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, “We are thrilled to be expanding both our partnership with Ropemaker and our presence in Scotland with Fresh’s appointment to operate Meadow Court and Norton’s Student Living. This collaboration showcases our proven capability to deliver strong results across the Build to Rent, co-living, and PBSA sectors.” He further emphasised the goal of maintaining the high operational standards that Ropemaker has come to expect.
Details of the Developments
Meadow Court is designed to accommodate 148 students, featuring a combination of 115 en-suite bedrooms situated within cluster flats and 33 units in townhouses, thereby offering a shared living experience. The amenities at this scheme are tailored for student needs, including shared study and social spaces, study pods, and a courtyard. Located just a 30-minute walk from Edinburgh Napier University’s Merchiston campus and a mere 10-minute walk from the University of Edinburgh, the site is ideally positioned for student convenience.
Norton’s Student Living complements this offering with its 149 units, which comprise 97 en-suite rooms and 52 studios. This property boasts amenities such as shared study areas, communal lounges, a games room, a cinema room, a gym, and a private rooftop dining room. Its proximity to the University of Edinburgh and a 30-minute bus journey to Edinburgh Napier University enhances its appeal among students seeking quality accommodation.
Enhancing the Student Experience
Paul Hillier, Investment Manager at Ropemaker, expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “We’re very pleased to continue and expand our relationship with Fresh and look forward to working with them to provide students with an exceptional accommodation experience during their studies, ensuring residents are supported during this important stage in their lives.” He noted that Fresh has already demonstrated significant value at their Build to Rent and co-living properties, and he is excited to extend this partnership into the PBSA sector.
Residents at both Meadow Court and Norton’s Student Living will benefit from Fresh’s acclaimed Be Wellbeing Programme, which is designed to support student wellbeing and foster a sense of community. Furthermore, Fresh’s Platinum-certified service level for PBSA properties, as recognised by the GSLI Spring Wave Survey 2026, underscores their commitment to delivering high-quality accommodation experiences.