Member Article

Proposed development of Newcastle’s Strawberry Place given first phase go ahead

Planning permission has today been granted for the first phase of a major, mixed-use development at Newcastle’s Strawberry Place, next to St James’ Park.

The development, a 331-bed student residence, will be completed by Vita Student, the student accommodation arm of Manchester-based Select Property Group.

Manchester-based Select Property Group, the company behind the scheme, say the project will create up to 300 new jobs for the region. The initial stage will be completed by Select’s Vita Student brand

The project will be Vita Student’s second site in Newcastle city centre, with its nearby Westgate development due for completion in July 2016.

Phase one planning also includes vehicular access and servicing arrangements which will be utilised by the commercial space and hotel which are included within the further two phases of the scheme.

The Strawberry Place residence will comprise 12 five-bedroom cluster apartments and 271 individual studios, alongside impressive communal areas featuring a large social hub, a movie room, private dining and dedicated study areas.

Talking about what the planning permission means for Select Property Group, Ken Knott, Chief Development Officer, said: “We are delighted to have been granted planning permission for Phase one of this exciting scheme, Newcastle is a fantastic city and the location of Strawberry Place is exceptional.

“The city it is a top destination for international and postgraduate students, both of whom want high quality accommodation and high standards of service.

“As the UKs only student accommodation brand that addresses service and quality we are looking forward to bringing our award winning offering to students for the September 2017 academic year.”

Adam Serfontein, MD of Hanro Group, which sold the site to Select Property Group, said: “The entire team has worked very closely with Newcastle City Council, from the inception of the scheme, to ensure that this development adds significant value to the city of Newcastle.

“Today’s approval for phase one is particularly important as this incorporates access and servicing provision for the subsequent stages of the mixed-use development.

“We are pleased to be bringing forward proposals for our remaining land holding, including the office and hotel, as part of our hybrid application and are looking forward to seeing the Vita Student vision for the site realised in due course.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →