UPP's Kent Accommodation reaches highest point

UPP’s £24 million student accommodation project at the University of Kent will today ‘top-out’ – reaching a milestone in the build. The four-storey student accommodation block at Keynes College has reached its highest point, this will be celebrated by the university, UPP and construction partners, Mansell, at a topping out ceremony today.

Once complete, the on-campus development, provided through a long-term partnership between UPP and the University of Kent, will comprise 495 new build student rooms adjacent to the existing Keynes College. The majority of rooms will be ensuite, constructed in eight room clusters, 45 rooms will be created in five townhouses, and five purpose built one-bedroom flats will also be constructed. A separate facilities management hub will complement the accommodation.

The project incorporates innovative environmental measures, following UPP’s award-winning Eco Residence model of sustainable development. The project is designed to achieve a BREEAM “Excellent” rating, by using responsibly resourced concrete and recycled materials where possible.

Professor Keith Mander, University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Physical Resources, said: “The provision of high quality teaching, high quality residential accommodation and other student-facing services is becoming increasingly important as students are asked to make ever-greater contributions to the cost of their education. New buildings are an important component of the University’s plans to provide high quality facilities for its students as we go into this new era. It has been a particular pleasure to be once again working with UPP and Mansell to develop these new student residences.”

Once completed, UPP’s residential management arm will operate the new student accommodation and deliver facilities management services.

UPP Chief Executive, Sean O’Shea, said: “Construction is well underway and this milestone in the build demonstrates a fantastic step towards completion of the project. This development has been designed with sustainability in mind and to further enhance the student experience. We’re looking forward to working closely with our construction partners and suppliers in delivering the completed project for the next academic year.”

The project is UPP’s second development at Kent, where UPP has previously delivered a lecture theatre, student accommodation and teaching and conference facilities.

UPP has now invested over £50 million into the University of Kent since their partnership began in 2008.

Construction will reach completion in September 2011.