Unite Group gets approval for Manchester student halls construction
Unite Group PLC on Wednesday said that Unite Students and Manchester Metropolitan University have received approval, from England's Building Safety Regulator, to commence the first phase of construction at Cambridge Halls.
"The redevelopment of Cambridge Halls will provide modern, affordable and sustainable accommodation for 2,302 students in the heart of the university's campus," Unite said.
The Bristol, England-based student accommodation provider said the demolition of the previous 770-bed halls of residence is complete. Main construction on the new halls has started, and structural groundworks are underway.
Unite noted that Manchester Metropolitan University has acquired a 30% ownership stake in the project joint venture and is contributing the value of its land, allowing it to "retain capital for other initiatives in its campus masterplan, including its new library, a purpose-built digitally enabled facility."
Unite and MMU are delivering the development in two phases. The first, comprising 1,101 beds, has received Gateway 2 approval and will be open in time for the start of the 2029/30 academic year. Phase 2, comprising 1,201 beds, will be open the year after.
"This is another major milestone in the redevelopment of Cambridge Halls and our exciting partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University," commented Unite Students Group Development Director Tom Brewerton. "We began the demolition of the former Cambridge Halls accommodation just seven months after agreeing the joint venture framework and are pleased to be able to move to the next phase of development."
Unite Group shares were marginally higher at 492.20 pence on Wednesday afternoon in London.
Copyright 2026 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.