A new 163 bed student accommodation development is being completed a short walk from Worcester University’s main St John Campus.
Construction work commenced at the end of June on the redevelopment of the former YMCA building and surrounding land located on Henwick Road to create a new student community, that will be known as Albert Residences.
This £16m redevelopment is being delivered by Space Developments, with local contractor J Tomlinson Ltd, who are experienced in delivering student accommodation projects, appointed to undertake the construction work.
The development brings new modern and high-quality student accommodation to the city, through the regeneration of this local, historically significant, site.
The original building was completed in 1869, its development made possible by the patronage of local MP & Alderman Richard Padmore and local businessman Edward Wheeler, along with other eminent members of the local business community. Originally an orphanage, the building was later occupied by the YMCA until its current redevelopment.
As part of the redevelopment, the original buildings which are Grade II Listed, with impressive gothic architectural features will be retained and refurbished to provide a spacious and unique 91 room student space, with large communal lounges and meeting rooms. A new building will also be sympathetically completed adjacent to the original structure to provide 72 additional student rooms. The buildings surround a large communal landscaped courtyard, creating a vibrant community feel for the 163 students in total.
Space Developments have worked closely with the Worcester Conservation and Planning team to sensitively convert the existing buildings and breathe new life into this neglected site to create a revitalised and lasting legacy for the local area.
Tim Edghill, Principal at Space Developments said: "We are very excited to be delivering this scheme and regenerating this historic building. The development will provide a unique and attractive range of rooms and flats for Students and a close and social community in which the students can live, work, and enjoy their time in Worcester.
"The redevelopment of this site as student accommodation, after its prior history as an orphanage and latterly YMCA accommodation, seems like the perfect new chapter for this development. We want to create an inclusive place where the residents feel part of a community where they belong and can grow and thrive, making lifelong friends.”
The Albert Residences will be open for Academic year September 2022.