The British Property Federation (BPF) has launched a new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) board to improve engagement with the Government.
The board’s key focus will be to enhance the understanding of PBSA’s contribution to students, universities, communities, and the UK economy.
It will demonstrate how the provision of PBSA supports the Government’s focus on increasing housing supply by reducing pressure on local residential housing market, while supporting its skills agenda by enhancing the UK’s appeal as a global study destination.
Joe Lister, CEO at Unite Students, will chair the board.
Lister said: “Purpose-built student accommodation is fundamental to the UK’s world-class higher education sector and to the prosperity of the towns and cities it supports.
“Through the BPF’s new PBSA Board, we will bring the sector together working with universities, communities and government to unlock responsible, well-located supply where it is needed most.
“One of our biggest challenges is meeting rapidly evolving student needs.”
Lister added: “As providers, we are committed to delivering high-quality, affordable and sustainable homes that support long-term university growth. “As chair, my focus is on turning collaboration into practical action so more students can access the homes they need to thrive.”
Matt Merrick, CEO at iQ Student Accommodation, said: “I’m delighted to join this new Board, which will give PBSA a unified industry voice at a pivotal time.
“By bringing together some of the sector’s most influential organisations, we have a real opportunity to shape strategic and policy priorities that support sustainable growth and long-term value.
“PBSA is a vital part of the UK’s higher education landscape, and I look forward to contributing to the Board’s work to ensure the sector continues to make an important contribution for students, universities, and the wider community.”
Melanie Leech, CEO at the BPF, said: “National and local economies benefit extensively from the millions of students that attend the UK’s universities.
“The Board has been created to continue to make the case to Government that PBSA has a critical role in providing students with safe secure housing that improves the overall student experience, while alleviating pressure on local housing supply and contributing to regional development.
“I look forward to working with Joe and his colleagues on the BPF PBSA Board to further the provision of professionally managed student housing and supports the Government’s ambition for growth.”
Founding members of the board include Lister, Merrick, Alex Pease, CEO at Watkin Jones, Ashling Fox, managing director at Student Roost, Duncan Garrood, CEO at Empiric Student Property, Elaine Hewitt, CEO at UPP, Nick Porter, CEO at The Dot Group, and Graham Rogers, CEO at Homes for Students.
