Investec Real Estate has provided a joint venture between Watkin Jones and Housing Growth Partnership with a development loan to fund the construction of a purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Stratford, East London, with a GDV of c. £120 million.
It takes Investec’s provision of PBSA finance since 2011 to over £1.1 billion.
Targeting completion in time for the start of the 2026/27 academic year, the development will comprise 397 rooms and circa 2,000 sqm of commercial space. It is located to cater for the nearly 14,000 students studying at UCL East and UAL’s London College of Fashion campuses in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, as well as the nearby Birkbeck College and UEL University Square Stratford campus. In addition, the asset’s micro location, being only a short walk from Stratford station, offers an easy commute to campuses across the Capital via the train, tube and DLR.
Alice Harman, originator at Investec Real Estate, said: “The investment case for UK PBSA remains highly compelling, underpinned by supportive structural and demographic trends. London in particular, with its concentration of leading higher education institutions and enduring global appeal, coupled with higher land costs and high private sector rents, continues to witness strong capital and rental growth.
“Importantly, the scheme’s environmental and social credentials align with both our own lending strategy and the demands of today’s students, whilst future proofing it from potential obsolescence. Working with existing partners who are sector leaders remains central to our growth strategy and we look forward to delivering much needed future schemes alongside Watkin Jones and the Housing Growth Partnership.”
George Dyer, group investment director at Watkin Jones, added: “We are delighted to continue our longstanding relationship with Investec Real Estate. Following the successful establishment of our joint venture with HGP, this development debt facility will enable delivery of Grove Crescent Road, Stratford in time for the 2026/27 academic year.
“Once complete, the scheme will deliver much needed high quality student accommodation, offering strong ESG credentials, into one of London’s fastest growing sub-markets.”
