Unite Students Commence Renovation Project on Durham PBSA Scheme

Unite Students, a dedicated provider of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), has initiated a project in collaboration with Durham University to enhance and expand its Rushford Court establishment in Durham. The revitalisation efforts to upgrade this development are scheduled for completion by Autumn 2024.

Initially established as County Hospital in 1853, the building was subsequently repurposed by Unite Students in 2018 following the hospital closure in 2010. During the academic year 2019/20, Rushford Court served as the interim residence for the university's John Snow College.

The construction, which is currently in progress, will see the addition of up to 358 student bedrooms. The complex will also encompass a two-story collegiate amenity building.

The amenity building will house a junior common room equipped with a cafe, bar, and communal area, alongside reception and study spaces. The design will integrate this building into the existing sloped gradient of the site. The ongoing transformation will also entail converting the current reception building into a fully-fledged gym and yoga suite.

Chief Executive at Unite Students, Richard Smith, commented: "We're delighted to start work to upgrade Rushford Court, delivering new facilities on site to enable the property to become Durham University's newest college. This is an exciting step forward as it allows us to strengthen our ongoing partnership with Durham University. I look forward to seeing the scheme progress over the next year and ultimately students and college staff enjoying the use of the building for many years to come."

Rushford Court received unanimous endorsement earlier this year from the planning committee of Durham County Council. The committee not only deemed the project's focus on biodiversity and carbon reduction to be significantly surpassing the mandatory benchmarks but also highlighted how the proposal alleviated the strain on permanent housing residents and minimised the potential for housing loss to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs).

Scheduled for September 2024, Rushford Court is set to become the temporary residence for the College of St Hild and St Bede. This transitional arrangement is designed to accommodate the period during which the proposed overhaul of the University's Leazes Road location is underway. The modifications to the Harding Building will involve the establishment of college staff offices and dedicated spaces for student well-being and study, complemented by the restoration of the historical entrance.

Pro-Vice Chancellor at Durham University, Jeremy Cook, commented: "This exciting development will enable the university to provide a home to our much-loved Hild Bede College, while we redevelop their historic home. Following this, it is intended for Rushford Court to become our newest college, creating a thriving community of students at all levels of study, from all subject areas."

Throughout the ongoing construction, Unite Students will maintain operational oversight of the facility, ensuring that residents remain accommodated on the premises. Looking ahead, the university's vision involves the establishment of a new 18th college at Rushford Court in the long run.