Student accommodation

As a leader and trusted partner in the higher education market, we deliver and operate a wide range of safe and highquality student accommodation. 

6,851

Beds

98.2%

Of waste generated avoided landfill in 2024

Our investment strategy

We have a long-term investment strategy and take a unique approach investing from the point of site acquisition through to holding the completed purposebuilt student accommodation (PBSA) building and stabilisation.  

We deliver new student accommodation through a range of approaches, including direct land acquisition and strategic partnerships with universities. 

Our expertise:

  • Site identification
  • Site acquisition
  • Design of the scheme
  • All planning matters and submissions
  • Procurement and management of the main contractor 
  • Development management services
  • Project and development financing (equity and debt)
  • Provision of hard and soft facility management services
  • Long-term partnerships with universities
  • Experience undertaking joint ventures with institutions to operate PBSA. 
East Slope University of Sussex showcase

Student-focused development

We develop new student accommodation in prime university locations, addressing the growing demand for high-quality housing for both local and international students. Our focus is on enhancing the student experience by creating safe, welcoming spaces with a strong sense of community and belonging. 

Integrated expertise and knowledge sharing

Our clients and partners benefit from the combined expertise of our investment, construction and operations teams, supported by knowledge sharing between our UK and US businesses. This integrated approach allows us to provide innovative, tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each university and college.

Flexible partnership model

As a long-term university partner, we offer a flexible design, build, finance and operational model that ensures success throughout the project’s lifecycle. 

The model can be adapted to meet each projects requirements, enabling clients to invest in their academic estate and enhance the student experience through sustainable, well-designed accommodation. With one of the strongest balance sheets in the sector, we also support our university partners in structuring the right financial and/or commercial approach whether that’s an off-balance sheet solution or by investing flexible equity to reduce borrowing costs. 

“Balfour Beatty provide us with extremely timely, competent and professional technical advice on the running of the East Slope estate, including the support of summer schools and conferences. Without Balfour Beatty, we would not have the quality accommodation for our students we now benefit from and that our students enjoy so much throughout the academic year.”  

Scott Noble, Head of Service Delivery, Estates and Facilities Division, University of Sussex 

  • A responsible business

    We are committed to delivering projects to the highest build standards, including The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) certification, while also prioritising the health and wellbeing of our employees and the communities we serve. As part of our sustainability strategy, we are targeting a 42% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 2030, supporting the transition to a low-carbon future. We also ensure full compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022 and its Gateway procedures, reinforcing our dedication to safety, accountability and responsible development.

  • Partnering for success

    Behind every successful project is an integrated, multi-disciplinary project team working in close partnership with our clients. We foster a culture of collaboration, problem-solving and genuine enthusiasm for delivering exceptional projects. By being transparent and consistently following through on our commitments, we earn trust and build strong, long-term relationships. For each project, we bring together the right blend of experience and expertise to meet our client’s needs.

  • Designed for student living

    Working with leading architects, we put the student experience at the heart of every stage of the design process, creating communities where students feel safe and free to socialise.  

    Good design starts with understanding what matters most to students, which is why we take the time to engage with them through questionnaires and interactive workshops. From bedrooms and flat layouts to social spaces and amenities, we ensure every detail is considered. Accessibility, inclusivity, security and sustainability are designed in from the outset, meeting the needs of all students.

  • Safe, high-quality delivery

    The safety and wellbeing of every individual is our highest priority. We are committed to achieving Zero Harm across all aspects of our operations, underpinned by our registration with the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS).  

    Our construction teams harness cutting-edge digital and modular technologies to deliver projects to the highest standards. Supported by trusted local supply chains, we operate transparently and collaboratively – minimising disruption to campus life while consistently delivering exceptional quality.

  • Smart financial solutions

    Our sector experience, capital markets expertise and ability to provide equity investment backed by Balfour Beatty’s strong balance sheet ensures we consistently deliver value for money through efficient funding solutions. 

  • Flexible operations

    We offer flexible, tailored services delivered in close collaboration with universities and colleges. We also offer facilities management solutions including high-speed Wi-Fi and digital infrastructure. Our customer-focused project teams are dedicated to creating an exceptional living experience for residents, combining operational excellence with a deep understanding of campus life. 

  • Investing in innovation

    Affordability is a key challenge in student accommodation. To address this, we commissioned a team of leading architects, engineers and cost consultants to explore new ideas through a dedicated a “hackathon”. Drawing on our global experience in the sector, the exercise considered all aspects of design – from room types and mechanical and electrical services, to structure and construction methods. By thinking differently, we deliver fresh, practical solutions that redefine student living for the future.

Speak with our team

Want to find out more about our bespoke solutions? Get in touch with our team.