Unite acquires Stratford site for 950-bed PBSA

Unite Students has acquired a site in Stratford for the development of its 952-bed purpose-built student accommodation scheme. Planning permission for the site, next to Meridian Steps near Westfield Stratford City shopping centre, was granted in April. The planning application was supported by University College London. The 41-storey tower will include roof terraces and extensive study and community space, including a gym. The construction of a new entrance and exit to Stratford Underground Station is also part of the plans. Of the student beds provided, 333 will be let at affordable rents, 30 will be self-contained studio flats while the rest are in shared flats of five to 10 bedrooms. One in 10 bedrooms will be wheelchair accessible. Unite is in the process of confirming a long-term agreement with University College London for its students to let more than half of the beds. This will support the university’s recently completed UCL East campus in Stratford. The project, scheduled for completion in 2028, will also deliver 10,000 sq ft of commercial space. Part of the space is earmarked for Royal Docks-based You Press, a social enterprise for young people and underrepresented communities. Tom Brewerton, group development director at Unite Students, said: “This development will support the local community by improving infrastructure and offering community group space. We have a strong relationship with University College London and are delighted to build our presence in Stratford, where our total planned investment is £400m.” Images © Unite Students