Unite Students launched their latest PBSA development earlier this year, Artisan Heights in Manchester. It is a striking building accommodating 603 students over 32 storeys. The £82.5 million development was constructed adjacent to the river Medlock and Oxford Road Station and was one of Unite Students’ most challenging to date. Among the challenges were adjacent live rail lines, ground contamination, archaeological finds, abandoned culverts, and the discovery of a well.

In addition, the team had to overcome the complexities arising from the unprecedented impact brought about by Brexit and COVID-19. These challenges included material shortages, ensuring a COVID-19 safe working environment and the resulting reduced numbers of operatives who could safely work on site. The development has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating and benefits from a green roof on level five comprising of a natural habitat to encourage insect and wildlife.