GMI Construction Group Launches Project for Student Accommodation Construction in York

GMI Construction Group has initiated its highly anticipated student accommodation construction project to address the shortage of (PBSA) purpose-built student accommodation in York. The group's initiative involves the development of a 303-bed student accommodation facility situated at James Street, York.

In 2022, S Harrison Developments achieved a major milestone by securing a substantial £22 million contract and obtaining planning consent for student use. This latest undertaking by GMI Construction Group aims to alleviate the pressing demand for suitable housing options for students in the city. The project is now underway following the developer's agreement with Singapore Based Q Investment Partners (QIP) for a forward funding deal. This is a breakthrough moment as the group begins with student accommodation construction in York. 

In a study containing the analysis of the top 50 universities in the UK and according to the recent student accommodation news, the rental markets across the country have experienced a surge in demand. Among the cities, there is a high demand for purpose-built student accommodation in York. The new construction is based on James Street, which holds a particular appeal among students. This Purpose Based Student Accommodation in York is located right off Lawrence Street, which makes it extremely close to the University of York and York St John University. 

The project is anticipated to be completed by the spring of 2025, pushing the PBSA sector in York further. It will help settle the pertaining shortage of PBSA in York, thus leading to more construction of student accommodation in the city. 

This purpose-built student accommodation in York is a four-storey building. Consisting of 108 studio rooms and additional 195 cluster bedrooms with common living and dining rooms. With other amenities such as a laundry room, gym and reception area, the property also includes parking spaces and storage. The ground floor of the student accommodation features a range of amenities, including a cinema and a shared working space.

The property has been meticulously designed to incorporate ample landscaped areas, with a notable addition of a pocket park located at the southeast corner of the premises. In concurrence with James Street, a dedicated strip will be transformed into a highway featuring a spacious 3.5-metre-wide shared path designed for pedestrians and cyclists.

After completing student housing construction in 2025, it will be operated and maintained by the Prestige Student Living brand of Homes for Students. The first batch of students will be welcomed by the property throughout the 2025 academic year. Once completed, it will become the dream destination for student housing in York.

The GMI’s Divisional Managing Director, Andrew Hurcomb, Yorkshire, has stated that “GMI Construction Group has a strong track record of delivering student accommodation across the North of England and the Midlands. The James Street development is in an ideal location given its within walking distance of two universities. It will help York confirm its position as a top study destination by expanding the range of quality facilities available for students."

Adding to this, Martyn Harrison from S Harrison said, “High-quality PBSA is in real demand in York, especially for schemes like this one, which is so close to both the University of York and York St John University. When this is combined with our local knowledge and QIP’s experience in the sector, there’s no doubt this development will prove to be very popular with the city’s student population.”