Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and construction of private and public sector works and civil engineering projects, and Gilltown have marked the topping out milestone at Progress House in Coventry, a 544-bed Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) scheme.
Representatives from Winvic, client Gilltown, engineer Westlakes and architect GDL gathered for a ceremony earlier this year to mark the structural completion of the six-storey development on Westwood Way, located approximately one mile from the University of Warwick campus. Guests were welcomed on site for speeches and a commemorative photo opportunity on the top floor.
Progress House is being delivered by Winvic under a Design & Build 2016 contract. The 185,736 sq ft scheme will provide 544 en-suite bedrooms and features a reinforced concrete frame with SFS infill and a high-quality brick façade, alongside extensive internal and external amenity spaces. The development replaces a former office building and will significantly enhance student living provision in the area, complementing the established student village at Westwood Business Park.
Residents will benefit from a range of facilities, including a gym and fitness studio, cinema room, communal lounges, study areas, games lounges and a garden lounge. Externally, landscaped amenity areas, an outdoor sports space and a pétanque court will provide opportunities to socialise and a 4,000 sq ft ground floor commercial unit will serve both residents and the wider community.
Sustainability remains central to the project’s delivery and Progress House is targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating, EPC A and WiredScore Platinum certification. A green roof and integrated photovoltaic system will contribute to reduced operational carbon; while applying BIM processes aligned to the Information Management Initiative (IMI) Framework, together the use innovative robot setting out to improve coordination and collaboration, all these elements have supported efficient design management and quality control throughout construction.
Winvic is working closely with the local community to deliver a comprehensive Social Value Plan, focused on creating employment opportunities, apprenticeships, training and work experience placements. The project team is also engaging with education providers such as WMG Engineering College, supporting charities close to the project and prioritising local SMEs and social enterprises, ensuring Progress House leaves a positive and lasting legacy for the Coventry and Warwickshire community.
Progress House is scheduled for completion in Summer 2027, ready to welcome students for the 2027/28 academic year.
Mark Jones, Managing Director for Multi-room at Winvic Construction, said: “Reaching this milestone at Progress House is a significant achievement for the entire project team and a proud moment for everyone involved. Our partnership with Gilltown and the consultant team has been instrumental in maintaining strong progress on site. As we move into the next phase of construction, our focus remains on delivering a high-quality, sustainable building that will provide an exceptional living experience for students, while creating lasting social value for the local community through employment, training, and engagement with local businesses.”
James Gillespie, Director at Gilltown, said: “We’re very pleased with the progress being made on site. Winvic’s attention to detail, proactive approach and commitment to maintaining high standards have been evident throughout the build. It’s encouraging to see the scheme taking shape exactly as envisioned, and we appreciate the collaborative spirit that has driven the project forward. We’re looking forward to the next phase as we work together to deliver a standout development for the University of Warwick’s student community.”
