GRAHAM has been appointed by the University of Bath to advance plans for a substantial new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development situated on its Claverton Down campus. This exciting project, procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), will see GRAHAM collaborate closely with the University under a two-stage Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) to refine and develop the design prior to construction.
Project Overview
Upon completion, this development will deliver an impressive total of 960 student bedrooms, alongside a variety of associated facilities aimed at enhancing student wellbeing and enriching campus life. Among the features included will be communal kitchens, social spaces, dedicated study areas, a games room, laundry amenities, and adaptable spaces intended for use throughout the academic year.
Accommodation Features
Located on the eastern edge of the University’s campus, the accommodation will offer a diverse mix of en-suite cluster flats and townhouse-style living arrangements, ensuring a high-quality and varied residential experience for students. This project aligns with the University’s ambition to cultivate a healthy, sustainable, and inclusive campus environment. GRAHAM will leverage its expertise in low-carbon construction and energy-efficient design to realise this vision.
Sustainability and Efficiency Goals
The buildings are set to target high sustainability standards, including certification to Passivhaus principles. This approach will facilitate reduced energy demand, improved thermal comfort, and enhanced indoor air quality for residents. Key features such as air source heat pumps and a fabric-first construction methodology will further contribute to lowering operational carbon emissions and support the University’s broader net zero commitments.
Meeting Growing Demand
This development plays a crucial role in increasing on-campus accommodation capacity, particularly for first-year students, thereby addressing the rising demand for on-campus living options. Rod McMullan, Contracts Director at GRAHAM, highlighted the significance of this appointment, stating, “Securing this appointment with the University of Bath marks an important step in progressing a high-quality student accommodation scheme that responds to the growing demand for on-campus living. We look forward to collaborating closely with the University and the wider project team to design a space that prioritises sustainability, operational efficiency, and, importantly, the overall student experience. This collaborative approach will be vital in ensuring the development is optimally positioned for successful delivery.”
University’s Commitment to Excellence
Dr Ghazwa Alwani-Starr, Chief Operations Officer at the University of Bath, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This scheme is a landmark investment for the University in the year we celebrate our 60th birthday. We look forward to working with GRAHAM as our construction partner. GRAHAM demonstrated their alignment with our values and ambitions to create a high-quality scheme that will enable us to build on our global reputation for providing excellent student facilities.” This partnership exemplifies GRAHAM’s continued commitment to delivering top-tier student accommodation projects across the UK, aiding universities in crafting modern, sustainable living environments that cater to the evolving needs of students.
This ambitious initiative not only reinforces the University of Bath’s commitment to enhancing its campus but also highlights the ongoing trend of investment in purpose-built student accommodation within the UK PBSA market, reflecting the increasing demand for quality living spaces that prioritise student wellbeing and environmental sustainability.