GRAHAM has begun construction on a major purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme at the University of Bath, with a groundbreaking ceremony held on the Claverton Down campus.

The start on site marks a key step in delivering one of the UK's largest sustainable student accommodation developments.

Due for completion in 2028, the scheme will create 926 student bedspaces with associated amenities, enabling more first-year undergraduates to live on the University’s main campus close to teaching, support services and the wider student community.

Situated on the eastern edge of campus, the new accommodation will include a mix of en-suite cluster flats and townhouse-style living. Facilities planned to support student wellbeing and campus life include communal kitchens and social areas, study spaces, a games room, laundry facilities and accessible, flexible rooms for year-round use.

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Designed to Passivhaus standards, the project adopts a fabric-first approach and will use air source heat pumps to cut operational carbon, improve thermal comfort and enhance indoor air quality. The initiative aligns with the University’s long-term sustainability commitments.

Procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), GRAHAM has worked in partnership with the University from early design and pre-construction through to the start of building works.

During pre-construction, University representatives visited GRAHAM’s Weavers’ Hall at Queen’s University Belfast—currently the largest Passivhaus-certified student accommodation scheme on the island of Ireland and the first in Belfast—providing insight that helped shape the approach in Bath.

Pat O’Hare, Regional Director at GRAHAM, said: "Breaking ground on this landmark development represents a significant milestone in our partnership with the University of Bath and the culmination of extensive collaboration during the pre-construction phase."

"Student accommodation is an area where we've developed real depth of expertise, from the scale of Weavers' Hall in Belfast to campus schemes across the UK, and Passivhaus is increasingly at the heart of that work. We're proud to be bringing that experience to Bath as construction gets underway on a development that will enhance the student experience while supporting the university's ambitious sustainability goals."