Student scheme takes shape at former Liverpool Uni lab

A former University of Liverpool research lab is set to be transformed into student flats.

Property company Skyline Developments is delivering a £2m project to turn the two-storey laboratory building, located on on Kempston Street in Islington, into 36 one-bedroom flats and a penthouse.

The site has been partially demolished and extended as it becomes a four-storey apartment block with a timber frame, lightwell and rooftop apartment.

A team from Liverpool-based consultancy Hardcastle and Hogarth is managing the project for Skyline and providing quantity surveying services.

Hardcastle and Hogarth, which also led on the planning and funding processes for the scheme, is owned by Salford Quays-based construction project management firm Recom Solutions.

Recom director Jason McKnight said: “The building is in a part of Liverpool city centre which is seeing a great deal of regeneration and we are pleased to be contributing further to the area’s revival with these new apartments, which are being developed to a high specification.”

Skyline Developments director Iqeel Abbas commented: “It is an exciting time for the business, as there is so much going on in Liverpool.

“We are delighted to be part of it with the Kempston Street scheme and we are looking to acquire further development sites in the city.”

Tenants are due to move in from the start of the next academic year in September.

Building firm Wellcare Construction is the main contractor for the project, with other businesses involved including architect Paul Keegan Associates, structural consultant Beckett Consulting and mechanical and electrical specialist Neco Services Design.