GMI Construction Group appointed to deliver £40m Manchester PBSA scheme for Tiger Developments

GMI Construction Group has been appointed as principal contractor by Tiger Developments to deliver a £40m purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Ardwick, Manchester.

The Carmoor Road development will provide 172 high-quality student bedrooms in a mix of studio and cluster apartments, located within walking distance of the University of Manchester and the wider Oxford Road Corridor. Once completed,  it will be operated by Host Student Housing, Tiger Developments’ student accommodation platform and one of the UK’s largest providers in the sector.

The project has a gross development value of £40m and is being funded by Tiger Developments, alongside Hampshire Trust Bank. Completion is scheduled for the 2027/28 academic year.

Designed by Lechler Hayes Architects, the scheme comprises two interconnected buildings ranging from three to six storeys. It will include a range of shared amenities, landscaped external spaces and enhanced public realm, contributing to Ardwick’s ongoing regeneration.

Sustainability is a key focus, with the development targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings, alongside energy-efficient design measures and biodiversity enhancements. In addition, approximately 15% of rooms will be offered at discounted market rent, supporting affordability for students from lower-income backgrounds.

The Carmoor Road scheme forms part of Tiger Developments’ continued expansion across major UK university cities, alongside other live projects including two PBSA developments currently underway in Bristol.

John Nesbitt, Managing Director at Tiger Developments, said: “We are delighted to begin construction on our latest scheme in Manchester, a city that has strong demand for well-located student accommodation.

“This development reflects our commitment to delivering sustainable, thoughtfully designed homes for students, while also contributing positively to the local community. Through our trusted student housing brand Host, we look forward to welcoming students in time for the 2027/28 academic year.”

Phillip Johnson, GMI’s Regional Director for the North West, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed principal contractor for this exciting new development in Manchester, and bring extensive experience in delivering high-quality projects across the region. We will work closely with Tiger Developments to ensure the project is delivered to the highest standards throughout construction.”

Andrew Dignum from Hampshire Trust Bank commented: “We are pleased to support Tiger Developments in delivering this high-quality student housing scheme in Manchester. By combining our shared expertise and aligned vision, we are bringing forward a well-designed and sustainable development that responds to clear demand in one of the UK’s strongest student markets. This collaboration reflects our commitment to building long-term partnerships with experienced teams to create lasting value.”

GMI Construction Group has a strong track record in the PBSA sector, having delivered several high-profile schemes across the UK. In Manchester, it is currently delivering a £29m 261-bed PBSA at Moss Lane East, overlooking Whitworth Park.

Tiger Developments, part of the O’Flynn Group of companies, specialises in large-scale student accommodation, co-living and commercial spaces designed to help communities flourish. Since the early 1990s, the group has delivered and owned over £2 billion in property across the living sector, working alongside its operating brand Host to provide a fully integrated offering to capital partners.