Bouygues signs £98m Essex Uni student halls deal

Bouygues’ specialist student rooms business ULiving has signed off the third phase of the University of Essex’s Colchester campus expansion.The £98m deal for phase 2b and 2c of the Meadows scheme will see 1,262 new bedrooms built, with the accommodation expected to be completed for the start of the 2023/24 academic year.The design, build, finance and operate deal was signed off by ULiving@Essex3 LLP, a joint venture between investment partner Equitix (80%) and Bouygues (20%).Bouygues will deliver the construction programme while ULiving will operate the residences for 50 years following completion of construction.The project involves five new buildings including a new hub building to include reception, post room, administrative area and student services centre along with laundrettes and staff welfare facilities.