Watkin Jones has secured Gateway 2 approval for a 201-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme on Freestone Road in Bristol’s Temple Quarter.
The scheme is being delivered for a joint venture between Moorfield Group and Tiger Developments, with Watkin Jones acting as development partner and Host appointed to manage the scheme upon completion.
Work started on site in early January and achieving this milestone mean the project has secured the necessary approvals, funding and contractual commitments to proceed to the next phase.
The JV partners are targeting BREEAM Excellent certification for the development, which is on track for completion in time for the beginning of the 2027/8 academic year.
Gwyn Pritchard, managing director at Watkin Jones, said: “Achieving Gateway 2 approval for our PBSA scheme on Freestone Road demonstrates our expertise in driving projects forward while maintaining our focus on excellence in construction delivery. The development highlights our ability to meet market demand with innovative, high standard builds that benefit communities and stakeholders alike. Well done to all involved.”
Hugh Canham, head of asset management at Moorfield Group, added: “We are pleased to have achieved Gateway 2 approval, which has been the result of a great deal of work from the entire project team. Working with experienced delivery partners with a proven track record, such as Watkin Jones and Tiger Developments, is central to our UK living sector strategy. Our conviction remains that purpose-built high quality assets will command a scarcity premium amongst both investors and consumers as new supply is constrained by ongoing regulatory and viability challenges.”
John Nesbitt, managing director at Tiger Developments, said: “Reaching Gateway 2 approval for the Freestone Road PBSA scheme marks a major step forward for this development and we are pleased to see work underway on site. This scheme will deliver high quality, sustainable student accommodation in a prime Temple Quarter location, supporting Bristol’s growing student population while contributing positively to the wider regeneration of the area. We look forward to working closely with Watkin Jones and our partners to bring this project to completion for the 2027/28 academic year.”
