Mulberry Court set for student living revival

A student housing project could transform redundant buildings in Liverpool.

Architectural, engineering and project management firm Building Design Northern (BDN) has created designs on behalf of Kexgill Group and the University of Liverpool for a major redevelopment at Mulberry Court, on Oxford Street. 

The proposals aim to restore and repurpose five disused buildings into modern, affordable postgraduate accommodation.

Bosses say the plans would deliver more than 5600sq metres of space, including 238 bedspaces across 35 studios and 49 cluster flats, alongside high-spec interiors, communal and recreational areas, as well as landscaped open spaces. 

They add that the project would help address growing demand for high-quality student housing in one of the UK’s most popular higher education cities, home to over 50,000 students.

Joe Warner, director of Sunderland-headquartered BDN, which has been appointed by Kexgill Group to deliver RIBA 0-4 across architectural, structural and civil engineering for the project, said: “Mulberry Court is an important project that gives a new purpose to buildings which have been vacant for some time.

“The designs focus on reuse and restoration wherever possible and take into account key considerations such as cost, sustainability and long-term usability.

“This reflects the shared priorities of Kexgill Group and the University of Liverpool in creating accommodation that is both practical and sustainable, and we look forward to seeing the concepts and plans come to fruition.”

The redevelopment is part of a wider vision by Kexgill and the University of Liverpool to combine premium accommodation with affordability, supporting broader city regeneration and investment.

Investment for the phased project could reach over £20 million.

Richard Stott, managing director of Kexgill Group, added: “This strategic collaboration with the University of Liverpool is establishing a benchmark model for university-industry partnerships aimed at addressing the UK’s student housing affordability crisis.

“It reflects a broader commitment to scalable, community-led development that supports accessibility and long-term sustainability.

“We believe this approach, grounded in accessibility, sustainability, and community integration, will set a precedent for the future of student accommodation in the UK. 

“We are proud to be working with the University of Liverpool to bring this vision to life.”

Planning approval is expected later this year, with construction activity anticipated to start in 2026. 

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