University signs 25 year lease on student scheme

The University of Leeds has signed a 25 year lease on bespoke student accommodation targeted at overseas post graduate students.

The seven storey 60,000 sq ft Blenheim Point marks the first partnership between the university and Yorkshire developer S Harrison.

The 180 bed facility is scheduled to be ready in time for the autumn 2018 intake.

Blenheim Point is the first student accommodation to be delivered in Leeds by Harrison, which has already completed schemes in Sheffield, Newcastle, York and Edinburgh.

“Together we have incorporated a number of features within the 180 rooms that will give the complex added appeal,” says Ian Robertson, director of residential services for the university.

Blenheim Point is located close to the heart of the university quarter, adjacent to the Leeds Student Medical Practice.  Contractors GMI started work on the 64 week contract in April 2017.

With an allocation of just over 8,600 rooms, the University of Leeds operates its own accommodation across 12 sites and leases accommodation at a further seven locations in the city.

“The quality of living spaces plays a vital role in recruiting students.  We guarantee accommodation to all first year students, and to other key groups, and understand the role that good design and good value play in the excellent student experience on offer at Leeds,” says Robertson.

Harrison’s managing director, Ann Scott, says: “This is an important high profile project and one in which we have worked closely with Ian and his team to design and deliver what we know will rank as amongst the most appealing student properties in their portfolio.  We are actively seeking other development opportunities in Leeds and look forward to partnering with the university on future schemes.”