Forrest to build £100m Aura development

Bolton-based Forrest has been appointed by developer Elliot Group to build its £100m Aura development adjacent to Liverpool’s rapidly-developing Knowledge Quarter.

The mixed-use development will comprise key worker and student accommodation on the site of the former Erskine Industrial Estate.

Amongst others, accommodation will be available for hospital staff working at the new £450m Royal Hospital next door, as well as new homes for student nurses and doctors.

The development will boast state-of-the-art facilities, including yoga studios, a residents’ gym, a bar and study zones and will push the boundary of the city’s expanding Knowledge Quarter further north.

Elliot Lawless of Elliot Group said: “We’re working with Forrest on our Residence project in Manchester and I’ve been very impressed with their focus and approach. This is a big project on an island site with some key neighbours, so having a developer who can add value to how we manage our stakeholder relationships was a key consideration.”

The Falconer Chester Hall-designed scheme will rise to 14 storeys at its highest point and comprises two buildings tied together by comprehensive public realm incorporating mature planting. It will provide 142 one and two bedroom apartments for rent, and 1007 student rooms.

Site hoarding and preparation is currently underway.