University of Exeter lays foundations for new West Park Student Residences

Image: demolition of Clydesdale Court, courtesy of the University of Exeter

The University of Exeter has been installing foundations for the new West Park Student Residences project to create new accommodation .

This spring demolition, ground works and piling is taking place followed by the building of pre-cast walls, structures and staircases to form the accommodation blocks. The West Park Student Residences project is creating new accommodation in the Clydesdale and Nash area and converting accommodation in the Birks Grange Village area from catered to self-catered.

This will include redeveloping the reception, catered dining halls and the Market Place Village Shop (Birks Grange Central Block) into further accommodation and amenity space including study, social and in-house commercial space. The catered Birks Grange blocks A-E will undergo a refurbishment and will provide modern self-catered accommodation once completed.

UPP has been appointed as the development partner to design, build, fund and operate the new accommodation.

Enhancing biodiversity and ecology in the area is an important aspect of the project. The University is working with its' development partners UPP to retain much of the mature woodland, plant double the amount of hedgerow that is currently in the area and plant over 200 trees.

The new planting will include a mix of seasonal species to enhance biodiversity, and wildlife habitats will be greatly improved, including the installation of bat, bird and hedgehog boxes, and wood and stone piles to provide further habitats. 

The Reserved Matters Planning Application for the project was approved by Exeter City Council at a planning committee meeting in June 2023.

The University is working with Bouygues UK to plan the works and to minimise disruption to colleagues, students and visitors where possible. Bouygues UK are part of the Considerate Constructors scheme, which ensures they have high standards in managing risks, protecting the environment and positive relationships with the local community.

Students are expected to move in to Phase One of the new accommodation by September 2027, and Phase Two by September 2028. 

Image: CGI of new residences, courtesy of the University of Exeter.