McLaren Property Initiates £160m Student Accommodation Project in Manchester

What's Happening?

McLaren Property has appointed McLaren Construction Midlands and North as the main contractor for a £160 million student accommodation development on Upper Brook Street in Manchester. This project, which is being forward funded by Legal & General, will deliver 737 student bedrooms across two blocks of nine and 23 storeys near the University of Manchester in the Oxford Road Corridor. The development will include 288 studios and 449 cluster bedrooms, along with shared amenities such as a gym, fitness studio, social space, and a café. Additionally, the project will feature new public realm areas, including landscaped spaces and a community facility. The construction will utilize a full concrete frame with prefabricated concrete panels, and bathroom pods will be supplied off-site by Walker Modular. The project aims to achieve BREEAM Excellent, EPC A, and Platinum Wired Score ratings, with completion scheduled ahead of the 2028 academic year.

Why It's Important?

This development is significant as it addresses the growing demand for student accommodation in Manchester, a city known for its large student population. By providing modern and well-equipped living spaces, the project supports the city's educational infrastructure and enhances the appeal of Manchester as a destination for higher education. The involvement of Legal & General in funding the project underscores the confidence in the city's real estate market and its potential for long-term investment returns. Furthermore, the project's commitment to high environmental and digital connectivity standards reflects a broader trend towards sustainable and technologically advanced building practices, which could influence future developments in the region.

What's Next?

As the project progresses, the focus will shift to the construction phase, with slip-form rigs being assembled before Christmas to allow the concrete frame to begin early in the new year. The completion of this project is anticipated before the 2028 academic year, aligning with the academic calendar and ensuring readiness for incoming students. Stakeholders, including community groups and the Salvation Army, will be involved in delivering social value commitments, which may include community engagement initiatives and support services. The project's success could lead to further collaborations between McLaren Property and other investors in the region, potentially spurring additional developments in Manchester's real estate sector.