University of Leeds signs 25-year lease on developer's first student scheme in the city

The University of Leeds has signed a 25-year lease on new student accommodation scheme targeted specifically at overseas post graduate students.

The seven storey 60,000 sq ft Blenheim Point, on Blenheim Walk, marks the first partnership between the University and developer S Harrison.

The 180 bed facility is located close to the heart of the university quarter, adjacent to the Leeds Student Medical Practice and within easy access of all the major facilities.

Blenheim Point was delivered with the Harrison team working closely with the University right from the earliest design stages to create accommodation which would provide for the specific needs of post graduate students and especially those from overseas.

Ian Robertson, director of residential services for the University, said: “We were impressed by their teamwork approach, their flexibility and their design ideas. Together we have incorporated a number of features within the 180 rooms that will give the complex added appeal. Throughout the process Harrison has demonstrated its ability to deliver to our exacting specifications.”

Blenheim Point is currently scheduled to come on stream in time for the Autumn 2018 intake. Contractor GMI started work on the 64 week contract in April 2017.

With an allocation of just over 8,600 rooms, the University of Leeds operates its own accommodation across twelve sites and leases accommodation at a further seven locations in the city.

Ian added: “The quality of living spaces plays a vital role in recruiting students. We guarantee accommodation to all first year students, and to other key groups, and understand the role that good design and good value play in the excellent student experience on offer at Leeds.”

Ann Scott, Harrison’s managing director, commented: “This is an important high profile project and one in which we have worked closely with Ian and his team to design and deliver what we know will rank as amongst the most appealing student properties in their portfolio.

“We are actively seeking other development opportunities in Leeds and look forward to partnering with the University on future schemes.”