The student experience in 2020 has been less than ideal, with young people returning for the new academic year finding themselves in a very different world. With tighter restrictions in place in the North East, and social activities severely limited across the country, it has never been more important for students to find the right place to live and study.

Albion House is a 56-bed block in St James’ Street, one of the most popular city centre locations for student living in Newcastle. The building had been in use as accommodation by Newcastle University for 5 years, before it was purchased by our landlord client in September 2019. It is now fully managed by Tyneside Lettings Company.

Our client is a highly regarded student accommodation provider with over 3000 student beds in its UK portfolio. The new landlords immediately began making plans to improve the block, which comprises eight 6-bedroom cluster flats, all with en suite rooms, and eight studio apartments. While the flats were designed with students in mind, they had begun to look worn and dated over time. Tyneside Developments was instructed to help our client bring new life to the building, modernising the furnishings and décor to provide the environment students have come to expect from city centre living.

Work began early in 2020, with the installation of new beds, desk chairs and noticeboards in all bedrooms. However, inevitably, the renovations were paused in March, as the UK went into lockdown. As the restrictions eased over the summer months, plans began to recommence the works in a Covid-Secure way. More improvements have since taken place, including the installation of new curtains in all bedrooms and new sofas in the communal living areas. These spaces are now being refreshed with the addition of geometric feature wallpaper and new dining tables and chairs are due to be installed soon.

As well as the internal renovations, the external spaces have also received a facelift. A covered smoking area and bespoke bin stores have been created outside, giving the front of the building a more attractive and welcoming feel. Parcel delivery shelves have been fitted in the entrance hallway to cater for students who are relying more than ever on online ordering. Finally, Tyneside Developments has been instructed to give the building a full new roof – ensuring the building remains in the best possible condition for years to come.

Our landlord client is committed to providing high quality accommodation so students can live and work safely during these difficult times. We hope these improvements will allow our student tenants to make the most of their university experience, however different it may be this year.

The Tyneside Group offers a comprehensive service to our landlord clients. The Tyneside Lettings team take care of all aspects of lettings and property management, while Tyneside Developments are on hand to find the best solution to maximise the return on your property investment.

To find out more about Tyneside Group, learn about us or get in touch.