We helped the Cambridge Halls redevelopment in Manchester secure Building Safety Act Gateway 2 approval.

 

Our team guided the project through Gateway 2, providing clear advice on building safety and compliance every step of the way.

 

The £286m redevelopment is being delivered for Unite Students and Manchester Metropolitan University. It will replace the former 770-bed Cambridge Halls complex with a new purpose-built student accommodation development providing 2,302 beds.

 

Gateway 2 approval is a major milestone under the Building Safety Act. It confirms that the Building Safety Regulator has cleared the first phase of the scheme, allowing main construction activity to move forward following completion of demolition.

 

The development will be delivered in two phases. The first phase will provide 1,101 beds and is due to open for the 2029/30 academic year. The second phase will deliver a further 1,201 beds the following year.

 

Designed by Cartwright Pickard, the scheme will include a mix of cluster flats, studios and postgraduate accommodation. It will also provide shared kitchens, dining areas, rooftop exercise space and sports facilities, supporting a modern student living environment close to Manchester Metropolitan University’s campus.

 

The redevelopment forms part of Manchester Metropolitan University’s wider campus investment programme, supporting its long-term plans for students, staff and the wider city.

 

The buildings are targeting BREEAM Excellent and will incorporate measures including air-source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, heat-recovery ventilation and intelligent building management systems to help reduce operational energy use.

 

We’re proud to help deliver safer, better-connected student accommodation in Manchester.