UCB to merge student housing into new 1,205-bed scheme

University College Birmingham (UCB) has secured planning permission from Birmingham City Council to develop a new student scheme that will consolidate its current student accommodation offering into one building.

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

Nearly 850 students will be relocated from The Maltings and Cambrian Halls sites into Cambrian Wharf, which will have a mix of 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. Work on the redevelopment is set to 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.”