Student accommodation scheme granted planning permission

A key brownfield site next to the University of Bolton’s Deane Road Campus has been given permission for new student living accommodation.

The five-storey 87-studio apartment scheme, designed by David Cox Architects on behalf of land-owner Makan Investments, sits off Fletcher Street, Pilkington Street and Basil Street on the edge of Bolton town centre.

The site is currently occupied by a car dealer and the existing single-storey building will be demolished to make way for the new accommodation.

With student numbers at the University of Bolton now reaching 6,000, plus ongoing investments in infrastructure development across the estate, the developer says these high-spec apartments are expected to be in significant demand.

Each independent living space includes an en-suite shower room and kitchenette, alongside communal areas including a group study room and lounge area for students to socialise.

The predominant design inspiration has been drawn from the scheme’s contextual setting.

Many historic mills surround the site in every direction, therefore, the new development provides an architectural nod to the past.

Steven Gallagher, associate at David Cox Architects, said: “The design devices we’ve used on this development are shared with the industrial mills in the neighbourhood that remain today.

“The repetitive and regimented window arrangement at Swan Lane Mills, the horizontal band coursing along the facade at Eagle Mill and the vertical element at Moor Mill, with each window emphasising height and scale.

“This rich industrial heritage has been captured in our new scheme design which ensures that the character and historic fabric of the town remains appropriate.”