Work starts on student accommodation block

Federica BedendoNorth East and Cumbria
Newcastle University An aerial shot of building work for the Castle Leazes accommodation. The large site shows three core units of the building being erected with groundworks happening around the three shells, with lots of machinery and materials in the area. Outside the building site is a green area with more high rise buildings in the background.Newcastle University
The first building is scheduled to be open in time for the 2028/29 academic year

Work has started to build accommodation for about 2,000 university students.

The stairwell and lift cores have been erected for the first building, which is part of Newcastle University's Castle Leazes project.

Two buildings, each made of 12 blocks, are due to replace the now-demolished 1960s student flats. The first is set to open in time for the 2028/29 academic year.

The university's chief financial officer Nick Collins said the redevelopment was a key part of the strategy "to ensure we offer our students high-quality and sustainable accommodation".

The steel frame of the structure is due to be erected next, acting as a skeleton for building the first of eight floors.

The development, which is costing about £250m, is being carried out in partnership with student accommodation provider Unite Students.

Group development director Tom Brewerton said he was excited to see the building take shape.

"This development is a major milestone in our long-term partnership with Newcastle University and will ensure more students have access to modern, energy-efficient accommodation close to campus."

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