Manchester City Council has given Viridis Living the green light for a new £400m sustainability infused transformation of student accommodation at The University of Manchester’s Fallowfield Campus.

Spanning Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall, the scheme – led by Equitix, Graham and Derwent FM – aims to bring significant green infrastructure improvements to the area.

Plans include the creation of five distinct neighbourhoods, with each to be given a distinct design inspired by the city’s cultural, sporting and musical heritage.

Natalia Maximova, partner at Sheppard Robson – the architects onboard the project comments:

“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.”

The University of Manchester adds that sustainability is at the heart of the design, with the project targeting Passivhaus certification and a BREEAM Excellent rating.

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), including offsite manufacturing, will also be used to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and accelerate delivery.

Commenting on the Reserved Matters Planning Approval, Neil McFarlane, GRAHAM project director says:

“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.”

Pending final approval, work at the University of Manchester is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with a phased handover planned between 2026 and 2030 to keep pace with student demand.