Work starts on multi-million pound city centre scheme

Work is underway on a major new student development in York city centre.

York-based development company S Harrison has appointed GMI Construction Group, and the Leeds company has now started work on the £6.2m contract.

The development, on Percy’s Lane, will provide living accommodation for 106 students and includes a number of self-contained townhouses.

The scheme will replace an industrial unit that was formerly home to electrical contractor and retailer Herbert Todd & Son. The longstanding York company recently relocated to purpose built premises at Monks Cross that was also developed by S Harrison.

The scheme is due to complete in time for the start of the 2018/19 academic year and will be owned and managed by Empiric Student Property, which operates student accommodation schemes across the UK.

Steve McManaman, from S Harrison, says: “It’s great to see work underway in this well-known part of York’s Walmgate Conservation area. This development promises to further enhance both the local streetscape as well as complementing all of the other regeneration work that has taken place on and around Percy’s Lane in recent years.

“We’re currently working with GMI on a 180 bedroom student development on Blenheim Walk in Leeds city centre and have been impressed with the team’s tenacious approach and professionalism, which made them the ideal partner for this latest scheme in York.”

Andy Bruce from GMI said: “We’re delighted to be forging a strong relationship with S Harrison and starting work on our second major development with the company this year. This scheme will see an outdated industrial unit replaced with a superb, modern building that will no doubt be a sought after address for York’s student population, as well as becoming a key landmark in this part of the city.”