In a notable advancement for the UK purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sector, Clark Contracts has begun the design and build of a £30 million development on Osborne Street in Glasgow, commissioned by Ambassador Group. This ambitious project will feature an 11-storey building providing 273 beds, strategically located in the bustling Trongate area at the heart of Glasgow City Centre.
The new accommodation aims to meet the increasing demand for high-quality student housing, a trend driven by the rising number of students in urban areas. The building will incorporate modern resident amenities, including a student lounge, gymnasium, and a spacious south-facing terrace offering views over the River Clyde, positioning this development as a key player in enhancing student life in Glasgow.
A pivotal sod-cutting ceremony held on 9th April marked the official start of construction, attended by notable figures from the Ambassador Group, Far East Orchard (FEOR), and the design team, including Clark Contracts. The event underscores the collaboration between various stakeholders aimed at delivering a project that not only meets the housing needs of students but also emphasizes sustainability and community connectedness—a core focus of the Nova Living concept introduced by the Ambassador Group.
Ahsan Afzal, head of development for Nova Living, expressed excitement for this first venture in student accommodation, highlighting its role in addressing Glasgow’s student housing shortage. Alan Tang, CEO of FEOR, noted this as a significant milestone for their newly established private student accommodation development fund, signalling strong investment interest in the sector.
The involvement of experienced design and construction partners—such as Gardiner & Theobald, Mosaic Architecture & Design, Blyth & Blyth, and Troup Bywaters & Anders—ensures that the end product will align with contemporary student needs while also contributing positively to the surrounding community.
Michael Scanlan, director of Clark Contracts, reflected on the company’s extensive experience in delivering over 1,400 beds in Glasgow, reinforcing the project’s potential to elevate the quality of student living in the area.