Winvic Construction Ltd, a prominent contractor renowned for its expertise in both private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, in collaboration with Gilltown, has celebrated a significant milestone at the Progress House development in Coventry. This new Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) scheme will feature 544 beds and is strategically located approximately one mile from the University of Warwick campus, enhancing the local student housing landscape.
The topping out ceremony took place at the end of February, attended by representatives from Winvic, Gilltown, structural engineer Westlakes, and architect GDL. During this event, attendees were invited to the top floor for speeches and a commemorative photo opportunity, marking the structural completion of this six-storey building situated on Westwood Way.
Project Details and Features
Progress House encompasses a substantial 185,736 square feet and will offer 544 en-suite bedrooms, designed with a reinforced concrete frame complemented by SFS infill and a high-quality brick façade. The development replaces a former office building and is poised to significantly enhance the student living provisions in the area, complementing the established student village at Westwood Business Park.
Future residents of Progress House will enjoy a wealth of amenities, including a gym and fitness studio, a cinema room, communal lounges, study areas, games lounges, and a garden lounge. Outside, landscaped amenity spaces, an outdoor sports area, and a pétanque court will provide ample opportunities for social interaction, while a 4,000 square foot commercial unit on the ground floor aims to serve both residents and the wider community.
Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability is a key focus of the Progress House project, which is aiming for a BREEAM Excellent rating, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) A, and WiredScore Platinum certification. A green roof and an integrated photovoltaic system will help reduce operational carbon emissions. Additionally, the application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes, aligned with the Information Management Initiative (IMI) Framework, is enhancing design management and quality control throughout the construction process. This innovative approach, including the use of robot setting out for improved coordination and collaboration, is indicative of Winvic’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, sustainable development.
Community Engagement and Legacy
Winvic is actively engaging with the local community through a comprehensive Social Value Plan aimed at creating employment opportunities, apprenticeships, training, and work experience placements. The project team is also in collaboration with educational institutions like WMG Engineering College, supporting local charities, and prioritising partnerships with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and social enterprises. This commitment ensures that the Progress House development leaves a positive and lasting legacy for the Coventry and Warwickshire community.
Timeline and Expectations
Progress House is scheduled to be completed in Summer 2027, in time to welcome students for the 2027/28 academic year. Mark Jones, the Managing Director for Multi-room at Winvic Construction, expressed pride in reaching this construction milestone, stating, “This achievement is significant for the entire project team and a proud moment for everyone involved. Our collaboration with Gilltown and the consulting team has been crucial in keeping the project on track.”
Echoing this sentiment, James Gillespie, Director at Gilltown, noted, “We’re very pleased with the progress being made on site. Winvic’s attention to detail and proactive approach have been evident throughout the build. It’s encouraging to see the scheme taking shape as envisioned, and we appreciate the collaborative spirit that has driven the project forward.”
With these developments, Progress House is poised to offer high-quality, sustainable living options for students while contributing positively to the Coventry community.