The Edge, Belfast’s newest and most eco-friendly PBSA scheme has completed, following 15 months of construction work. The 307-room luxury development is located in the city centre, directly beside the new Ulster University campus. It is set to welcome its first students this academic year on 14 September.
The Edge was developed by ROK Property and Bridges Fund Management. It will be managed by Prestige Student Living, who offer luxury PBSA at 35 locations across the UK and Ireland.
“We’re delighted that The Edge is finally opening its doors to students this September. In Belfast, we felt there was a clear shortage of high-quality purpose-built accommodation to house the University’s growing student population. We set out to meet this need by creating a scheme with best-in-class sustainability credentials that would also support students’ wellbeing. We hope The Edge will be able to have a lasting positive impact on the lives of students in the city.”
Guy Bowden, Partner, Bridges Fund Management
Located on York Street, The Edge offers studio rooms with prices starting from £149 per week and flexible tenancy lengths, making it a cost-effective option for Belfast students.
The PBSA scheme will be Northern Ireland’s most eco-friendly student block, with sustainability at the heart of both the construction and operation of the building.
Recycling and waste management were prioritised during the demolition process, CO₂ emissions were actively reduced throughout the build, and all materials specified were in accordance with BRE Specification. In operation, the building will be fully electric, thanks to air sourced heat pumps and solar PV, while also utilising water-saving technology and storm water attenuation.
Placing wellbeing at the heart of student’s needs, the state-of-the-art building includes a high-quality fitness suite, dedicated yoga and Pilates studio, as well as a range of amenities such as an outdoor zen garden, cinema room and gaming nooks, all designed to enhance the academic journey of students.
The Edge project is working towards a BREEAM Very Good and Fitwell and Wired Score Accreditation. The scheme has created five new full-time jobs plus 180 during construction. ROK Property and Bridges Fund Management’s project will also contribute nearly £2m annually to the Northern Ireland economy and continue the regeneration of Belfast City Centre.
“The Edge is now complete, welcoming students from the 14 September. This marks a significant milestone for us, as our first PBSA scheme in Northern Ireland.
“The building will be a major addition to the accommodation offering around the new Ulster University campus and will play a role in helping to meet the needs of the student population in the city centre.
“Throughout the design process, sustainability was important to us. We worked to ensure The Edge is Northern Ireland’s most eco-friendly student block, offering students a stylish yet affordable living experience, with the most flexible tenancies available anywhere in the city.”
Dylan Lindsay, Director, ROK Property
