The 724-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) is being built near Ulster University, which will increase the options for students in the city
The Biscuit Factory student accommodation is expected to be completed in June 2026.
The development is being built on the old grounds of a former March & Co biscuit factory, originally established in 1881.
Lacuna Developments owns the new Belfast student accommodation
Investment from Lacuna Developments hired GRAHAM to undertake the project, creating a complex with a mixture of studio and cluster flats within a 10 storey building, with modern social and wellbeing amenities.
Ciaran Leahy, contracts manager at GRAHAM, said: “Biscuit Factory is a fantastic addition to Belfast’s student accommodation, designed to provide modern, comfortable, and purpose-built homes for today’s students.
“Drawing on GRAHAM’s long-standing experience in delivering high-quality student accommodation, we have worked closely with the project team to ensure this complex sets a new standard for student living. It’s exciting to see how it will enhance the city and create a vibrant community where students can truly thrive.”
Anthony Best, managing director of Lacuna Developments, said: “The topping out of Biscuit Factory marks a major milestone in bringing new life to a site with a rich history.
“Transforming the area into a modern, high-quality student accommodation, the development celebrates the site’s past while providing contemporary, welcoming spaces for students to live, study and connect.”
PBSA is of increasing importance for the industry
Earlier this month, the British Property Federation launched their Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Board, reflecting the sector’s growth and importance to the UK economy.
The board is comprised of eight representatives who will engage with local and national government.
Joe Lister, chief executive officer of Unite Students, said: “Purpose-built student accommodation is fundamental to the UK’s world-class higher education sector and to the prosperity of the towns and cities it supports. Through the BPF’s new PBSA Board, we will bring the sector together working with universities, communities and government to unlock responsible, well-located supply where it is needed most.
“One of our biggest challenges is meeting rapidly evolving student needs. As providers, we are committed to delivering high-quality, affordable and sustainable homes that support long-term university growth. As chair, my focus is on turning collaboration into practical action so more students can access the homes they need to thrive.”
Melanie Leech, chief executive of the British Property Federation, said: “National and local economies benefit extensively from the millions of students that attend the UK’s universities. The Board has been created to continue to make the case to Government that PBSA has a critical role in providing students with safe secure housing that improves the overall student experience, while alleviating pressure on local housing supply and contributing to regional development. I look forward to working with Joe and his colleagues on the BPF PBSA Board to further the provision of professionally managed student housing and supports the Government’s ambition for growth.”
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