Greystar invests in 836-bed PBSA scheme in Birmingham

Greystar is investing in a new 836-bed PBSA development in Selly Oak, Birmingham, a £90 million project that will regenerate a long-vacant brownfield plot into a residential-led scheme.

Construction work has started on the development, being delivered by contractor McAleer & Rushe on behalf of Student Roost, one of the UK’s largest student accommodation providers.

“Having delivered thousands of student beds across the UK, we understand what it takes to create a successful living environment for students and lasting value for cities”, said Daniel Thompson, Managing Director UK Development, Greystar. “Selly Oak is a key location, and we’re investing in its long-term future through a mix of housing, public realm, and essential services.”

The project, located on the site of a former Sainsbury’s supermarket, will bring forward much-needed new homes for students, alongside amenities that benefit the wider community. It will deliver 472 studios and 364 cluster bedrooms across two buildings, as well as 26,000 sq ft of commercial space including a community medical centre, parking spaces, and new landscaped public areas.

The project supports Student Roost’s strategy to expand in high-demand university cities. Birmingham is one of the UK’s most undersupplied student housing markets, and this scheme is part of a broader plan to deliver high-quality, professionally managed homes in locations where they are most needed.

“This transformative scheme will not only bring much-needed, high-quality student accommodation to one of the UK’s most undersupplied university cities, but also reinvigorate a long-derelict site in Selly Oak”, said Darragh Greenan, Director, McAleer & Rushe. “By regenerating the high street frontage along Bristol Road, the development will create a more vibrant, accessible and welcoming environment for both students and the wider community. With a strong focus on sustainability and placemaking, this scheme sets a new standard for integrated, sustainable urban living and will leave a lasting, positive impact on the local area.”

The appointment of McAleer & Rushe follows successful collaboration with Greystar on other UK projects, including the delivery of Canvas Wembley, which has topped out and is due to open ahead of the 2025/26 academic year. The new Selly Oak development will include over 13,000 sq ft of resident amenities, including study areas, lounges, a gym and a cinema. It targets BREEAM ‘Very Good’ and EPC A ratings, with sustainability measures such as a green roof, solar panels, and the use of sustainable construction materials.