Developer bids to construct 338-bed student accommodation property
An application has been submitted that would see a student accommodation scheme built on James Street in York, close to both the University of York and York St John University.
The scheme, by York-based development company S Harrison, will see an industrial unit – occupied by Alton Cars – replaced with a development consisting of 308 bedrooms in cluster apartments, all with their own communal kitchens, living areas and dining facilities, and 30 studio apartments.
The development, which has been designed by York based CSP Architects, includes a large central communal area offering study space, games room, cinema, gym and laundry facilities, in addition to two outdoor landscaped courtyards.
A large cycle store will also be incorporated into the project.
Gavin Douglas, from S Harrison, said: “Submitting this planning application follows a public consultation that didn’t generate a single objection and comes at a time when demand for student accommodation is significantly outstripping supply.
“This summer there have been numerous reports about York running out of student accommodation and there’s no doubt purpose-built student accommodation schemes can alleviate the problem, as well as freeing up existing housing stock for local families.
“We’ve specifically designed this development to sit comfortably in the largely residential surroundings at this end of James Street.
“The new building is a much better fit for the local streetscape and existing neighbours than the current industrial unit and it will significantly improve the view from the adjacent Conservation Area along Lawrence Street.”
This planning application follows S Harrison transforming the neighbouring former Working Men’s Club and The Tam O’ Shanter public house, on Lawrence Street, into a 115-bedroom premium student accommodation scheme, which completed in 2017.
S Harrison has delivered several other student accommodation developments in York recently including St John Central in the heart of the city centre, Abode on Navigation Road and Percys Place, in York’s Walmgate conservation area.
Other schemes delivered by S Harrison in York include The City of York Council headquarters at West Offices and the adjacent Hampton-by-Hilton Hotel on Toft Green and Lidl on James Street.
