Viridis’ major redevelopment of the Fallowfield campus has begun, as the tallest building, Owens Park Tower, has been demolished.
The consortium Viridis – comprised of John Graham Construction, Equitix and Derwent FM – is driving the Fallowfield Campus redevelopment project forward in line with the University’s aspiration to create a greener, more sustainable future at the campus, rooted in the delivery of an unrivalled student experience.
Now, preparations to build are getting underway on the site of the Owens Park Tower, as part of The University of Manchester’s wider regeneration of the Fallowfield Campus.
The Tower was taken out of service in 2021 with demolition beginning in 2024. It was completed in Spring 2025, with the demolition carried out by Manchester-based company P.P. O’Connor.
Modern and high-quality purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) will be built on the site, bringing the wider Fallowfield Campus offering up to 5,400 student beds. The project will deliver 3,300 updated bedrooms as well as replacing some of the existing accommodation.
Planning permission for the new accommodation was secured following public consultation with local groups, residents, staff and students, after the submission of a reserved matters planning application in March this year.
“Owens Park Tower will always be remembered by generations of staff and students. For many of our alumni, it was their first home in this city.
“But a great new chapter awaits our Fallowfield Campus, and I am excited to see our bold vision for modern student accommodation, which reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional living environment, come to life.”
Barra Mac Ruairí, Chief Property Officer, The University of Manchester
Along with Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall will eventually also be redeveloped. The changes come at a time of increasing demand for student accommodation in Manchester, with the University committed to providing inclusive and safe accommodation in sociable surroundings.
“Every student that studies with us deserves a safe place to call home and a learning environment that supports them in reaching their full potential. We are investing in our Fallowfield Campus to ensure it meets the needs of our students.
“We are always listening and working to improve the experience of our students, and we understand the availability of high-quality, good value student accommodation is insufficient in this city.
“The changes to our Fallowfield Campus will bring seismic benefits to our student community, from the moment they arrive to the day they graduate.”
Dr Simon Merrywest, Executive Director for the Student Experience, The University of Manchester
