The complex is scheduled to replace a now-demolished 1970s office block with a modern 12-storey building offering 551 bedrooms. The project, spearheaded by contractor GRAHAM and Glasgow architects Cooper Cromar, was officially launched with a groundbreaking ceremony on 6 July.

The new student complex is expected to be completed by 2025, offering students luxurious communal facilities that span 16,390 sq ft, including a gym, a gaming arcade, dining spaces, and social areas. In a strategic location, it neighbours the Elgin Place block, another iQ Student Accommodation project, featuring 323 beds and also delivered by GRAHAM.

The design of the new accommodation, inclusive of a glazed frontage, is intended to harmonise with the wider cityscape. Students will also have a range of options for the tenure of their stay, adding to the block’s appeal.

The development is now in its initial piling operations phase, with groundwork expected to last two months. Come September, two tower cranes will be installed, and the core construction phase will commence, followed by the building’s concrete framing.

The wider project team also includes planning consultant, Ryden, engineering consultant, Woolgar Hunter, Atelier Ten, which will manage the mechanical and electrical engineering, and project manager, Faithful & Gould, and multidisciplinary design consultancy, Hydrock.

Gary Holmes, regional managing director at GRAHAM Building North, said: “We are excited to continue our excellent relationship with the iQ Student Accommodation team through the delivery of further much-needed student residences within Glasgow city centre. This is a particularly important project with demand continuing to outstrip supply.

“Now that GRAHAM is on site, our team look forward to bringing the development out of the ground and creating high-quality accommodation and amenities for students in Glasgow.

“We are keen to support wider regeneration efforts in the city, helping to retain its reputation as an attractive destination for both local and international students.”