Proposal submitted by UCB for 1,200-bed student redevelopment

University College Birmingham (UCB) has submitted a planning application to Birmingham City Council to redevelop its current student accommodation into one building.

Cambrian Wharf would accommodate 1,205 bedrooms and be split across two blocks, the 35-storey Canal Block and 15-storey Courtyard Block on Brindley Drive near the Jewellery Quarter.

Students would be relocated from The Maltings and Cambrian Halls sites into one building comprising 237 studios and 968 shared flats.

Plans for the scheme were initially revealed in June as well as the university opening up a public consultation. If Birmingham City Council grants permission, work on the redevelopment would start at the end of 2024.

Mark Payne, executive director of finance and corporate services, UCB said when plans were originally revealed: “The proposals for the redevelopment of our existing student accommodation offer will strengthen the University’s ability to offer a world-class, supportive student experience in well-located, good value, quality accommodation.

“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.”