Watkin Jones, the UK's leading developer and manager of residential for rent, is pleased to announce that the Group has recently practically completed on a 282-bed purpose-built student housing (PBSA) scheme in Hawkins Road in the historic market town of Colchester, Essex.
Spread over 92,000 square feet, the 286-bed scheme was delivered by Watkin Jones on behalf of its clients, Moorfield Group and Melberry Developments, providing a mix of cluster and studio rooms across nine floors. The building amenities include social, study and gaming spaces in addition to a management suite and indoor and outdoor fitness spaces.
In support of Watkin Jones’ ESG strategy, this state-of-the-art development incorporates cutting edge technology and engineering to target reduced emissions and hit the Group’s sustainability objectives. This has been achieved using recycled materials alongside innovative solutions. One of the key features is the implementation of Air Source Heat Pump heating for the hot water system, which eliminates the need for gas usage. Additionally, a grey-water irrigation system has been integrated to efficiently utilise water resources, in addition to a water attenuation system that prevents overcapacity into the public drainage system Furthermore, the development includes charging points for electric cars, supporting sustainable transport and has achieved a BREEAM “Excellent” rating.
Colchester is a modern and fast-growing city with excellent places to visit and eat, making it a highly appealing location for students. The scheme is conveniently located close to all three train stations in Colchester and is within walking distance of the University campus.
Richard Harris, Group Delivery, Managing Director Watkin Jones, said: “We are delighted to practically complete and hand the Hawkins Road development over to our clients, Moorfield Group and Melberry Developments. This project reflects our continued commitment to provide the highest quality PBSA accommodation, in great locations across the UK, that students can call home. With sustainability at the forefront and state-of-the-art facilities, this development represents our commitment to elevating standards of student living and creating a homely and positive experience for residents.”
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Media enquiries:
Buchanan (Watkin Jones)
Henry Harrison-Topham / Jamie Hooper
watkinjones@buchanan.uk.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7466 5000
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7251 3801
Notes to Editors
Watkin Jones is the UK's leading developer and manager of residential for rent, with a focus on the build to rent, student accommodation and affordable housing sectors. The Group has strong relationships with institutional investors, and a reputation for successful, on-time-delivery of high-quality developments. Since 1999, Watkin Jones has delivered 48,000 student beds across 143 sites, making it a key player and leader in the UK purpose-built student accommodation market, and is increasingly expanding its operations into the build to rent sector. In addition, Fresh, the Group's specialist accommodation management business, manages over 22,000 student beds and build to rent apartments on behalf of its institutional clients. Watkin Jones has also been responsible for over 80 residential developments, ranging from starter homes to executive housing and apartments.
The Group's competitive advantage lies in its experienced management team and capital-light business model, which enables it to offer an end-to-end solution for investors, delivered entirely in-house with minimal reliance on third parties, across the entire life cycle of an asset.
Watkin Jones was admitted to trading on AIM in March 2016 with the ticker WJG.L. For additional information please visit www.watkinjonesplc.com