GRAHAM has been appointed as contractor to deliver the redevelopment of Cambridge Halls student accommodation at Manchester Metropolitan University, which is being delivered through a joint venture between the University and Unite Students. The long-term partnership will create 2,302 new student bedrooms as part of a major regeneration of the campus.
The project includes the demolition of the existing 1990s-era accommodation and the construction of two new multi-storey buildings across two phases, providing a mix of cluster apartments and studios alongside internal and external amenity spaces. The development will also include ground-floor commercial space and a new community health centre fronting Cambridge Street, strengthening links between the campus and the surrounding community.
Designed by Cartwright Pickard architects, the buildings will rise to up to 30 storeys and deliver high-quality, purpose-built accommodation.
Designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, the buildings will incorporate a highly thermally efficient fabric with a wide suite of low‑carbon and energy‑efficient technologies. Air‑source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, low-energy heat‑recovery ventilation systems and advanced intelligent building management systems will all work together to substantially reduce operational energy use and carbon emissions.
Stephen Van den Hoek, Regional Director at GRAHAM, said: “Cambridge Halls is a significant and complex regeneration project that will transform this part of the campus. We are proud to have been appointed to work with Manchester Metropolitan University and Unite Students to deliver high-quality, sustainable accommodation that supports student wellbeing and long-term performance. Our team is looking forward to working collaboratively with all partners as the scheme moves forward.”
Demolition is now under way, with construction scheduled to start later this year, with phase one due for completion in 2029 and phase two following in 2030.
