Consortium appointed to redevelop Manchester campus

The Viridis consortium is expected to sign a £400m design, build, finance and operate (DBFO) contract for 5,400 student beds to upgrade the Fallowfield campus.

Viridis comprises Equitix as investor, developer and manager, Graham as lead contractor (and puts in equity) and Derwent FM as facilities manager.

His advisers include architect Sheppard Robson and consulting engineer WSP.

The University of Manchester and Viridis aim to reach financial close of contract negotiations by the summer of 2025.

Approved plans include the redevelopment of Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall. On completion, the wider Fallowfield campus will provide up to 5,400 student beds, replacing older accommodation on site and providing 3,300 updated bedrooms to meet the growing demand for high-quality, modern bedrooms on the popular campus .

The redevelopment will be done in stages. Demolition of the Owens Park Tower and surrounding buildings, which have been closed for several years, is underway and is expected to be completed in early 2025.

Graham chief executive Andrew Bill said: “We will focus on creating an exemplary sustainable campus that will enhance the experience of the university’s next generation of students.”

Achal Bhuwania, Chief Investment Officer, Equitix, said: “This win has been achieved through our relentless focus on building trust and long-lasting relationships, as well as delivering best-in-class solutions with a primary focus on sustainability and ratio value for money”.

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