This will be followed by the building of the structural steel frame which will act as the skeleton of the building and allow for scaffolding to be erected ahead of the first of the eight floors being poured.

This first phase of development will see the first of two buildings being built which will open in time for the 2028/9 academic year. When the redevelopment is complete there will be two new buildings, each sub-divided into 12 blocks of modern and sustainable living spaces for students.

The project is a joint venture between Newcastle University and Unite Students, the UK’s largest, owner, manager and developer of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), and is the first of its kind in the UK.

Nick Collins, Chief Financial Officer, Newcastle University, said: “I’m delighted that construction of the redeveloped Castle Leazes is now well under way. Working with our partners at Unite Students, the redevelopment of Castle Leazes is a key part of our strategy to ensure we offer our students high-quality and sustainable accommodation.”

Tom Brewerton, Group Development Director, Unite Students said: “We’re pleased to be on site and moving forward with the construction of Castle Leazes. This development is a major milestone in our long-term partnership with Newcastle University and will ensure more students have access to modern, energy -efficient accommodation close to campus. We’re excited to see the buildings begin to take shape in the coming weeks and moving a step closer to realising our vision for this unique project.”

Planning permission for the new development was given by Newcastle City Council in 2025.

The approved plans will see the comprehensive redevelopment of the Castle Leazes site, creating a vibrant student village that meets the evolving needs of the university's student population.

Newcastle City Council’s planning committee highlighted that the development will provide significant benefits to the local economy and job market, and also help to boost the university’s income stream and ability to attract students to the city.

Modern and sustainable design

Key aspects of the approved plans include:

• Modern and sustainable design:
• Energy-efficient buildings designed with sustainability at their core.
• A range of room types, designed to meet diverse student requirements.
• Enhanced community spaces:
• Increased communal areas, including social hubs, games rooms, study spaces, and outdoor courtyards, designed to foster a sense of community.
• Contribution to the City:
• The project will contribute to the city's housing strategy by providing purpose-built student accommodation, helping to alleviate pressure on the private rental market.

The total development cost will be c.£250 million and Unite will act as development and asset manager.