The Lancaster-based student accommodation provider will restore the Grade II-listed building (pictured above), which was built in 1882 and was also once a showroom.

CityBlock has owned the building for over 20 years and is working to restore the property alongside construction partner John Turner Construction Group and designers SSHARC architects.

The scheme is due for completion in August 2019 and will feature 96 beds in total spread across cluster flats and studio rooms.

•   DFT Roundtable: Mezzanine finance, joint ventures and equity
•   Beaufort completes funding for Glasgow student scheme
•   A guide to developing student accommodation and HMOs

“We respect the heritage of the building and have incorporated the historic features in the design,” said Trevor Bargh, CEO at CityBlock. 

“We are excited to welcome students to the building in September 2019.  

“Student wellbeing remains a priority for CityBlock and the scheme has been designed with this in mind, with excellent amenities, including a communal lounge, private dining room and quiet study area.”

Vicky Lofthouse, chief executive at the Lancaster and District Chamber of Commerce, added: “It’s great that local history is being preserved in a way that helps the future of the city. 

“Students are an important part of the local economy and many either stay on to live and work or return later in life to set down roots.”