Viridis Living has achieved an important milestone with Manchester City Council granting Reserved Matters Planning Consent for the redevelopment of the University of Manchester’s Fallowfield Campus.

The consortium, comprising Equitix, GRAHAM and Derwent FM, worked closely with the University, the Council, the local community and key stakeholders to secure Reserved Matters Planning Approval for the redevelopment.

Development can progress towards a start based on the finalised design, layout and landscaping plans. Covering Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall, the development will deliver up to 3,300 modern, high-quality student homes, alongside amenity spaces, ancillary residential dwellings and extensive green infrastructure.

A key feature of the scheme is the creation of five distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own identity inspired by Manchester’s rich cultural, sporting and musical heritage. Sustainability is central to the design, with the project targeting Passivhaus certification and a BREEAM Excellent rating. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), including offsite manufacturing, will be used to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and accelerate delivery.

Viridis Living also submitted its first application to the Building Safety Regulator in June 2025, three months ahead of planning approval. This proactive step supports the consortium’s commitment to fire safety, detailed design and the accelerated delivery of much-needed student housing in the city.

GRAHAM, on behalf of the consortium, has led the planning process in collaboration with the University of Manchester, architects Sheppard Robson, and planning consultants Deloitte.

Commenting on the planning approval, Neil McFarlane, GRAHAM Project Director, said: “We’re delighted to reach this important milestone on a project of such scale and significance. The approved plans reflect our commitment to delivering a quality development that meets the evolving needs of students and the University.

“The engagement with the local community and our response to challenging environmental targets have resulted in a well-received planning application. Inclusion, accessibility and student wellbeing are embedded throughout the scheme, making this one of the most forward-thinking student accommodation developments in the UK.”

Barra Mac Ruairí, Chief Property Officer at The University of Manchester, said: “We are really pleased with the progress and see this as a major milestone in providing quality homes in Fallowfield with excellent student support facilities. This project is significant, and we remain focused on delivery and maintaining quality throughout the build process. There are more milestones ahead, and we are committed to achieving our goals for residential renewal.”

Ben Leech, Managing Director, Investments, Equitix, said: “We’re pleased to see that the next stage of planning approvals for the University of Manchester’s new student accommodation has moved forward at pace. This important project will deliver much needed, high-quality, sustainable housing that keeps student wellbeing at its heart and reflects our commitment to long-term social infrastructure investment.”

Natalia Maximova, partner at Sheppard Robson, said: “Our design draws on the site’s layered history and character—from the rich parkland setting to the careful preservation and relocation of Mitzi Cunliffe’s ‘Cosmos 1’ relief sculpture. The detailed proposals establish five distinct neighbourhoods, fostering a sense of belonging through varied colours, textures, and finishes, with sustainability and wellbeing as unifying threads.

“The new social hub and additional study areas provide a variety of spaces that encourage togetherness and help reduce stress and isolation. We have increased biodiversity through new green spaces and a car-free environment, helping to rebuild the student community at Fallowfield as part of one of the world’s largest Passivhaus developments.”

Eamonn Tierney, Managing Director, Derwent Facilities Management, said: “This is a significant milestone in delivering a transformative scheme for Fallowfield and The University of Manchester’s students. We are proud to play a key role in this landmark contract, using our expertise to create a vibrant, sustainable community where students can truly thrive. We look forward to working closely with the University of Manchester and our partners to provide a world-class living experience that meets the evolving needs of students and the wider community.”

Enabling works are progressing ahead of the main construction programme, which will begin in early 2026. A phased handover will allow students to move into their new homes from 2026 through to 2030.

For more information on the Fallowfield Campus redevelopment, please visit here.