A new 203-bed student accommodation complex on a former warehouse site in Bath has reached a milestone in its development with a traditional topping-out ceremony.
The development on the site of the former Pickfords warehouse on Lower Bristol Road is the latest in a string of schemes on industrial sites in the area as Bath’s student population continues to climb. It joins a number of other upmarket student schemes that are a far cry from the traditional student digs.
The project involves the redevelopment of the former warehouse into two, four and five storey accommodation blocks, made up largely of ‘cluster flats’ with shared kitchens and dining spaces, flexible study and social areas and an on-site gym.
Guests joined the site’s developer – Bristol and Exeter-based property company Eagle One – and building contractor Speller Metcalfe to celebrate as the last section of concrete was placed on the top floor of what is now known as Aquila Court.
Eagle One director Paul Withers said the scheme was a very exciting project for the group.
“We have owned the site for 30 years, having developed the original building specifically for Pickfords,” he said
“Once complete, Aquila Court will be the largest single asset held in Eagle One’s increasingly diverse portfolio and the first one of our own schemes that we will have redeveloped.”
Eagle One construction director Jon Symons added: “Speller Metcalfe has successfully delivered a number of projects for the Eagle One group and we have enjoyed continuing that relationship on Aquila Court in the delivery of this landmark development, ready for the 2020/21 academic year.”
Speller Metcalfe joint managing director Andy Metcalfe said: “Following the success of previous projects with the Eagle One group we are very pleased to have had the opportunity to work together once again on this fantastic new scheme and are delighted to reach this exciting milestone in the build.”
“Aquila Court builds upon our extensive experience in both the further education and residential sectors and offers those living in Bath whilst at university a premium, high quality student accommodation choice.”
Speller Metcalfe is one of the UK’s leading construction companies working from offices in the Midlands, South West and London while Eagle One develops and owns retail, leisure and employment schemes across the South West.
Pictured: Eagle One Group managing director Paul Goodes ‘topping out’ Aquila Court
