Morgan Sindall Construction has started construction of student housing at the University of Cambridge, which will be built to Passivhaus standards.
The Owlstone Croft project, delivered by the contractor’s Cambridge business, includes four new student accommodation terraces on the Queens’ College estate.
As well as delivering 13 new homes, the contract involves the refurbishment of existing Blocks A and B at the site.
Stretching over 6,500 sq m, the £34.4m project will create 60 new bedrooms in the Owlstone Croft development and 87 refurbished bedrooms in Blocks A and B.
The new accommodation will feature a mix of single and double bedrooms, while the refurbishment works include a cafe extension, gym extension, cycle store, and study and seminar room.
John Stedman, project director for Morgan Sindall Construction in Cambridge, said: “Students deserve a place where they can study and unwind, and we’re so proud that our development plans will support a more fulfilling living experience for them.
“With these high-quality developments that remain in keeping with Queens’ College’s historic feel, we will create a comfortable and inviting space that students can truly consider home throughout their academic journey.”
Supporting biodiversity
As the site is situated beside Cambridge’s Paradise Nature Reserve, Owlstone Croft’s design aims to complement the surrounding area. As part of this approach, Morgan Sindall will plant rain gardens and an assortment of plants and trees.
Andrew Bainbridge, domestic bursar at Queens’ College, said: “Through the landscape-led design, the scheme places a strong emphasis on biodiversity, green space and environmental stewardship, helping to support the college’s wider decarbonisation ambitions.
“We are particularly pleased that the project will not only enhance our estate but also deliver long-term environmental benefits for both the college and the surrounding area.”
Work on site is expected to be completed in the summer of 2027.
