Vita Group has submitted plans for a 34-storey PBSA development in Manchester. When it was first unveiled last year, the scheme had 750 rooms. However, another 119 beds were added later in 2024.
The proposals include the delivery 861 beds – offering four types of fully fitted studios that include a kitchenette with fridge, hob, microwave oven, a study desk and en-suite bathroom. Larger rooms include washer/dryers.
Designed by Tim Groom Architects, the project will feature a main block clad with black metal panels and a connected 12-storey brick envelope block.
Vita’s scheme would also include a number of social spaces, group study rooms and three gyms. The designs also propose a number of safety measures including a 24 hour security presence and CCTV.
The development will provide 136 secure cycle parking for residents within the building. There are no car parking spaces proposed within the scheme.
The site currently comprises brownfield land which has previously been used for temporary surface level car parking.There are two sites subject to this application.
This includes the proposed development site extending to approximately 0.25 ha. The plot is bound to the north by Plot 9A of the First Street Development Framework (FSDF) area and to the south east by Hulme Street, and to the west by Medlock Street.
The construction compound site extends to approximately 0.46 ha. This site is bound to the north by the River Medlock; to the east by Cambridge Street; to the south by Macintosh Mills; and to the west by River Street.
The proposed Vita scheme is a short commute from both Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester and is situated in the city’s rapidly growing First Street district.
The neighbourhood, designated as a regeneration area by Manchester City Council features a mix of office and leisure spaces, including a cinema, theatre and art gallery HOME.
The wider project team includes Deloitte, Abacus, ROC Consulting, Futureserv, TPM Landscape, Design Fire Consultants, Fisher Acoustics, SLR Consulting, Project Four Construction, Element Sustainability, Pager Power, Penny Anderson Associates, Pre Construct Archaeology, Proximity, Enfusion, Amion Consulting, and ArcAero.
“A detailed assessment of the proposals has been undertaken against planning policy at all levels. Taking all of this into account, it can be concluded that the Proposed Development is considered to be in accordance with the Development Plan when taken as a whole.”
Planning and Tall Building Statement, Deloitte
Vita Student currently operates 23 buildings across the UK, with two sites in Manchester – located at Circle Square on Oxford Road and First Street.
