Next phase for Manchester student accommodation

The University of Manchester has unveiled its plan to create up to 3,300 new student bedspaces at one of its campuses.

The university launched a public consultation this week to inform locals on the next phase of the campus’s redevelopment. 

Covering Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall, the plans look to expand and replace existing bedspaces at the university’s Fallowfield campus.

The consultation will close on 30 June, to which the the university will then submit a final planning application to Manchester City Council. 

Full scope

The new bedscapes will uplift the current number by up to 950 beds, making 5,400 in total at the campus. 

Future phases include the demolition of Owen Parks Tower, the £7 million contract of which is out to tender, with bids closing at the end of June 2023. 

The university is also overseeing enabling works to refurbish existing accommodation in Oak House in the Summer. 

Partners 

Architect Sheppard Robson designed the scheme, with Turley acting as planning consultants, and Rider Levett Bucknall and Midollo as project managers, according to Place North West.

Buro Happold is also advising on the environmental impact assessment. 

Vinci built phase one of the development, which involved eight multi-storey student accommodation blocks and 1,122 student rooms.  

On the new phase, Dr Simon Merrywest, director for the student experience at the University of Manchester, said: “This redevelopment provides an opportunity to widen the choice and supply of student bedrooms whilst ensuring they are fulfilling the requirements of future students studying at the University.”

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