GMI Construction Group has started work on a £29m purpose-built student accommodation development (PBSA) in Manchester, marking a major milestone in its partnership with specialist developer Alumno.
Situated on Moss Lane East, overlooking Whitworth Park, the scheme will deliver 261 high-quality student bedrooms in a mix of cluster flats and studios. Designed by Stallan Brand Architects, it will feature a nine-storey new-build, incorporating brickwork and metal cladding detailing, alongside the refurbishment of a listed Georgian villa.
The project secured Gateway 2 approval, a mandatory checkpoint under the recently introduced Building Safety Act 2024 for higher-risk buildings. As principal contractor, GMI is responsible for demonstrating competence, submitting robust control plans, and ensuring all works follow the approved design and is the first GMI scheme to progress under the new legislation.
Anthony Judge Regional Director at GMI Construction Group, said: “We’ve built a strong and trusted relationship with Alumno over several years, and each project we deliver reinforces our shared commitment to quality, innovation and creating outstanding spaces for students.
“As principal contractor, we’ve taken full responsibility for meeting the new Building Safety Act regulatory requirements, from demonstrating competence to submitting detailed control plans and ensuring the build aligns with the approved design.
“We have now successfully navigated the Gateway 2 process on two schemes and are one of a handful of contractor’s to have completed the Gateway 3 process which underlines our expertise in design and build compliance regarding High Risk Buildings’.
The Moss Lane East PBSA is located in a prime location, close to both the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Due for completion ahead of the 2027 student intake, it will provide residents with a range of amenities including study spaces, lounges, a cinema, gym and wellbeing room.
David Campbell, Managing Director at Alumno, added: “Our development will improve the local area through sensitive and coherent design and planning, as well as providing an economic boost to local businesses, delivering much-needed, good quality accommodation for Manchester’s student population, which includes an element of rooms set at affordable rents.
“As with all our developments, we have worked closely with stakeholders and the community to ensure the scheme enhances this vibrant neighbourhood.”
