A significant milestone has been achieved with the Topping Out stage reached by Alumno, representing Invesco Real Estate, at the £29 million purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project known as The Canvas Building on Moss Lane East in Manchester. This event was marked by a celebration that included representatives from the Alumno team, key personnel from the main contractor GMI Construction Group, and members of the broader project team. The project is on schedule for final completion ahead of the 2027 academic year, ensuring contemporary student accommodation is available in a location that is well-connected to both the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, making it an attractive proposition for students.
Project Overview
Designed by Stallan Brand Architects, this development for Invesco Real Estate aims to address the rising demand for high-quality accommodation within Manchester’s expanding student population. The Canvas Building will feature a combination of cluster bedrooms and single-occupancy studio apartments, delivering a total of 261 student beds. The site is strategically positioned overlooking the picturesque Whitworth Park, showcasing a blend of a newly constructed nine-storey building alongside the sensitive refurbishment of a nearby listed Georgian villa, which helps retain the area’s historical character while introducing modern architecture.
Design and Amenities
The architectural design employs high-quality brick and metal cladding to harmonise with the nearby surroundings. Students residing in the accommodation will benefit from a comprehensive range of amenities, including dedicated study and collaborative workspaces, social lounges, a cinema room, fitness facilities, and a wellbeing space. Such provisions are essential for fostering a vibrant and supportive living environment for residents, further enhancing the appeal of the property.
Statements from Project Leaders
David Campbell, Managing Director of Alumno, remarked: “Reaching the topping out stage is an important milestone for everyone involved in this project and a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of the team on site. We are proud to see the scheme taking shape, given the significant market challenges, and to be delivering a development that will make a positive contribution to the local area.” He added that the project aims to provide much-needed, high-quality student accommodation, including a portion of rooms available at affordable rents.
Furthermore, Campbell emphasised that Alumno has actively engaged with local stakeholders and the community throughout the process to ensure that the scheme not only complements but also enhances this vibrant neighbourhood, creating a sustainable benefit for both students and the wider community for years to come.
Phillip Johnson, Regional Director for the North West at GMI Construction Group, also highlighted the significance of this milestone: “Reaching this milestone is a significant achievement for everyone involved and reflects the hard work, collaboration, and commitment shown by the entire project team. It’s fantastic to be joined on site by our client, project partners, and stakeholders to celebrate the progress made.” He expressed pride in working alongside Alumno once again to deliver a development that promises to positively impact the local area while providing high-quality accommodation for future generations of students.