The University of Bath has launched early market engagement on R7 Student Accommodation Capital Works – a £100m project to build close to 1,000 purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) bedrooms on the university’s main campus.
A preliminary market engagement notice was published on Friday 9 May. It explained that the University of Bath is seeking input from potential bidders before launching procurement for the project.
The scheme is expected to deliver around 960 bedrooms alongside associated ancillary areas aimed at undergraduate students. It will increase the availability of on-campus accommodation for first-year students.
According to the prior information notice, the R7 Student Accommodation Capital Works scheme is intended to mirror the standard of other competitor PBSA developments and will support the university’s goal of delivering a ‘healthy, safe, sustainable and inclusive’ campus.
“This is an important development for the University and I hope that as many members of our community as possible will come and see the proposals and have their say on this exciting project.”
Dr Ghazwa Alwani-Starr, Chief Operating Officer, the University of Bath
The university has not yet confirmed the procurement route or contract type, but has indicated it is open to input from prospective bidders before finalising its approach. The contract is expected to run from April 2026 until October 2028.
Firms interested in taking part in the preliminary market engagement process must register by 21 May via the Delta eSourcing portal. The estimated total value of the works is £100m including VAT.
The University’s Masterplan, which was carefully developed with a wide range of stakeholders and agreed with Bath & North East Somerset Council in 2021, includes plans for increased provision of on-campus student accommodation to the east of the campus site.
