Vision unveiled for Belfast PBSA

Elkstone has revealed initial plans for a new 870-bedroom purpose-built student accommodation scheme at Murray’s Exchange in Belfast city centre. The site was formerly occupied by Murray, Sons and Company’s tobacco factory, a portion of which has been listed and developed for office accommodation. The remainder of the site not currently in use has been vacant since 2005 when Murray, Sons and Company announced the factory’s closure. The development will include a mix of clusters, with single bedrooms including ensuites, a shared kitchen, living and dining space and self-contained studios with private kitchens. Ciarán McIntyre, Elkstone co-founder and head of real estate, said: “Whilst Murray’s Exchange was constructed in 1900, a large part of the site has laid vacant for almost 20 years. Our plans to develop a PBSA scheme would not only assist in bolstering the supply of much-needed student beds in the city but would also assist in revitalising the rich history of the development site. “With the adjacent transport hub at Grand Central Station set to bring a new dimension to the area, the PBSA scheme will deliver a wide range of economic and community benefits, including increased footfall, more employment opportunities, and enhanced activity for surrounding businesses.” Residential planning in Belfast >>