Manchester’s skyline formed the backdrop for celebrations as iQ Student Accommodation’s (iQ) development on Echo Street achieved a major milestone.

The Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) scheme on the edge of the Whitworth Street Conservation area, was topped out this week by main contractor Bowmer + Kirkland (B+K), Architect Sheppard Robson, members of the project team and executives of iQ, one of the leading providers of purpose-built student accommodation in the UK.

The topping out ceremony was performed on the highest point of the tallest tower of roof of ‘Block C’ – 81 metres above street level – and guests heard speeches from Matt Merrick, Chief Executive of iQ, Matt Loughlin, Chief Development Officer for iQ, Bowmer + Kirkland Regional Director Paul Sykes and Senior Contracts Manager Mark Lambkin.

Formed of three interlinked buildings of 16, 22 and 28 storeys, the new student accommodation development is located alongside Vimto Park, at the gateway to Picadilly. The property will offer 1,224 beds, and boasts fantastic amenities including social and study spaces, private dining rooms, cinema, karaoke rooms and wellness spaces including an on-site gym and outdoor study garden.

Sustainability has also been a core consideration for the building’s design and construction, and it aims to be BREAM Excellent. Efforts to reduce the building’s carbon footprint during the build process meant consideration was given to sustainable construction methods, reducing waste and using local supply chain and employment where possible. Sustainability has also been a core consideration for the building’s ongoing operation, including installation of renewable energy sources.

B+K Regional Director, Paul Sykes, said: “This new development is the first time that Bowmer + Kirkland has worked with iQ Student Accommodation and we’ve been delighted with the collaborative approach across the whole client and consultant team. From the initial pre-contract engagement, contract award and on-going construction a “one team” approach has been taken which has been instrumental in the successful delivery of the project so far. The scheme is on schedule to be delivered on-time and on budget”.

Matt Loughlin, Chief Development Officer for iQ, said: “This milestone signifies the tremendous progress we have made on this flagship Manchester development and we are grateful to everyone involved in the project for their commitment to get us here today. Manchester is one of the most popular student cities in the country, and this property, just a stone’s throw away from Manchester’s renowned universities, will provide them with the high-quality, well-located accommodation they need. We can’t wait to welcome students here and are confident they will enjoy its impressive views of the Manchester skyline and outstanding rooms and amenities.”

Rupert Goddard, partner at Sheppard Robson, said: “It’s really satisfying to see iQ’s latest Manchester development – a project we have worked on from concept to delivery – starting to take its place on the city skyline.

“This new landmark will play a major role in creating high-quality student homes for the city centre, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with iQ, Bowmer & Kirkland and the wider project team to deliver this important development.”