Shepherd to build £4m student scheme in Hulme

YORK-based building contractor Shepherd Construction has won a £4m contract to build a new five-storey student accommodation building on the site of the former Arch bar in Hulme for Unite Group.

The building will provide 119 rooms for students at Manchester Metropolitan Building and the 50-week construction programme will start later this month in order for it to be ready for the start of next year’s academic term.

The timber-framed building has been designed by Manchester-based architectural practice Halliday Meecham and will have a BREEAM rating of Very Good.

Unite Group’s project manager for the scheme, Robin Goodlet said: “As a leading developer of student accommodation, we are committed to regenerating key areas of Manchester to support local higher education institutes and the student community.

“We’re pleased to have appointed Shepherd Construction for their ability to deliver on time and to budget on these challenging projects.”

Peter Millett, managing director for the West Division of Shepherd Construction, said: “We are delighted to be appointed as the main contractor on this project, which will provide much-needed student accommodation in the area. We look forward to starting work this autumn.”

Shepherd Construction has also recently been appointed as main contractor on the Student Castles scheme – a £45m tower on Great Marlborough Street in Manchester which is being funded by Carphone Warehouse founder Charles Dunstone.