Nottingham student development sets new safety standard
A new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project is the first to achieve Gateway 2 approval under the Building Safety Act (BSA).
The developer, Cassidy Group Ltd, has made history with its scheme called The Square, a development in Beeston, Nottingham.
Planning permission was granted for the project in May 2023 and when complete, it will serve University of Nottingham students from the 2026/27 academic year.
Ensure construction adheres to approved plans
Gateway 2 is a crucial stage in the BSA process, involving regular, rigorous inspections to ensure construction adheres to approved plans.
It was introduced following the Grenfell Tower tragedy to enhance safety standards for high-risk buildings.
The firm's development manager, Peter Cavendish, said: "This achievement is a unique milestone for Cassidy and reaffirms our commitment to delivering safe, sustainable and high-quality developments.
"As we move forward, we remain focused on setting the highest industry standards."
He added: "Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure we meet every requirement, and this approval from the Building Safety Regulator is a testament to their dedication and expertise."
Provide 1,084 student beds
The Beeston development, along with Cassidy's other PBSA schemes in Arkwright Street and London Road, Nottingham, will provide 1,084 student beds and 319 private rented sector (PRS) apartments.
With a combined gross development value of approximately £200 million, these projects are set to be delivered over the next two years.
Mr Cavendish added that these developments will help alleviate the significant shortage of student accommodation in Nottingham, which is estimated to be around 19,000 beds, and 2,000 beds specifically in Beeston.
Proposed PBSA development
Located in the heart of Beeston, The Square is a PBSA development offering easy access to both the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University.
With a tram stop outside, students can reach the University of Nottingham in just seven minutes or take a 15-minute walk.
The development will provide 419 modern studios, spacious amenity areas for students to relax and socialise, and a commercial unit for shops or communal working spaces that will be open to the public.
'Great news for the PBSA sector'
The managing director of Accommodation for Students, Simon Thompson, said: "It's great news for the PBSA sector that a new development has achieved Gateway 2 approval.
"The safety of tenants in a PBSA setting is paramount and those involved with this scheme should be congratulated on their commitment."
He added: "It does mean undergoing regular inspections during the build process but that's a small price to pay to deliver a safe, quality building.
"With a strong pipeline of PBSA projects underway, we will be hearing more about Gateway 2 approvals and that's a good thing for all student landlords."
