UK: London-based developer Regal has outlined plans for its first PBSA project, in High Road, Wembley.
It plans to build 340 affordable and private student rooms and is seeking support from local planning officers and key stakeholders, with the intention of applying for planning permission from the London Borough of Brent later this summer.
Paul Eden, co-founder of Regal London, said: “We’re looking forward to bringing new life to this part of Wembley with our proposals for a vibrant, new home for students in close proximity to the academic centres of excellence across London. Our previous experiences working with Brent played a significant part in our decision making to keep building our presence in the area, as the council’s ‘can-do’ attitude and proactive approach to problem solving is a breath of fresh air.”
The project would be Regal London’s second development in Brent, having secured planning permission for 759 homes in Fulton Road.
The 340 rooms at the High Road scheme would be on the upper levels with space for local businesses at ground level.
Regal plans for 50 per cent of the bedrooms on offer to be made available at discounted rates and 35 per cent of the total to be affordable in line with GLA requirements.
The proposals include private studio apartments for students living on their own, apartments (two rooms with a shared kitchen and bathroom), and clusters (multiple en-suite bedrooms with shared kitchen and living space).
The development is targeting a BREEAM ‘excellent’ rating, with work on -site starting early next year and students moving in from September 2025, subject to planning consent.
Eden added: “This is an important and exciting next step in Regal London’s growth, diversifying into a new sector with our trademark quality and design excellence.”
The company said demand for student accommodation in north-west London had exceeded supply for several years. “This development will make a substantial contribution to meeting that demand in one of the boroughs where the need is greatest,” it said.
