Watkin Jones has secured Gateway 2 approval for its 484‑bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme on Malago Road in Bristol’s Temple Quarter.
The development is being delivered on behalf of a joint venture between Watkin Jones and Maslow Capital.
The Malago Road scheme, which will regenerate a brownfield plot, will comprise three blocks, with part of the scheme to be operated under a nomination agreement with the University of Bristol.
Construction began on site in early 2026 and the project remains on schedule for completion in time for the 2028 academic year.
Gwyn Pritchard, managing director at Watkin Jones, said: “The achievement of attaining Gateway 2 for our Malago Road scheme reflects the strength of our partnerships, the quality of our design, and the hard work of our teams. With construction already underway, we are pleased to be progressing a development that will regenerate a brownfield site and deliver high quality, sustainable student homes in a prime location. This project underlines our commitment to creating thoughtful, future‑ready student accommodation, and we look forward to progressing the project towards completion in time for the start of the 2028 academic year.”
Sky Mapson, senior director of origination at Maslow Capital, added: “Gateway 2 approval is an important milestone for Malago Road and reinforces our conviction in the strength of the scheme. Bristol continues to demonstrate clear demand for well-located, purpose-built student accommodation, and this development is particularly well positioned given its connectivity and proximity to the University of Bristol’s growing Temple Quarter campus. We are pleased to be partnering with Watkin Jones to support the delivery of an asset that is well aligned with the city’s long-term needs.”
