The Viridis consortium has been chosen as the preferred bidder for the University of Manchester's Fallowfield Campus redevelopment in England, UK.
The consortium comprises GRAHAM, Equitix, and Derwent FM. GRAHAM is the investor and responsible for construction, Equitix is the infrastructure investor, developer, and manager, and Derwent FM will oversee facilities management.
This decision comes after a competitive tender process and marks a significant milestone in enhancing the university's student housing initiative.
The partnership between the university and Viridis will progress to refine the design, build, finance and operate (DBFO) strategy, targeting financial closure by mid-2025.
The project aims to construct contemporary, purpose-designed student residences at Fallowfield Campus, as part of a broader initiative to augment the availability of updated living spaces and communal areas for students.
Manchester City Council's Planning and Highways Committee sanctioned the University of Manchester's plans for the campus in January 2024.
These plans include redeveloping Owens Park, Oak House, and Woolton Hall to cater to the increased need for student accommodation that fosters inclusivity, safety, and social interaction.
The campus is strategically located close to the university's primary facilities, offering easy access to extensive support services for students.
Upon completion, the development will provide up to 5,400 student beds. This includes replacing older housing units with 3,300 newly renovated ones to satisfy the rising demand for high-quality student accommodation.
University of Manchester Student Experience director Simon Merrywest said: "As we have said previously, these plans show our commitment to providing our new and returning students with modern, high-quality accommodation.
"This much-needed update to one of our most popular student campuses will help us to continue to meet the needs of our student population by delivering well-connected, serviced, modern accommodation in a supportive and inclusive environment.”
The redevelopment is set to occur in stages, with the demolition of Owens Park Tower and adjacent buildings already underway and expected to finish early in 2025.
Advisors for the University of Manchester on this project include RLB, CBRE, Student First Group, QMPF, and Pinsent Masons.
The Viridis team, meanwhile, is receiving guidance from Sheppard Robson (design), Operis (finance and accounting), Osborne Clarke (legal and tax), Howdens (insurance), and WSP (technical).
