A new development in South Belfast is set to improve the city’s student accommodation offer, Councillor Emmet McDonough Brown has said, after plans were given the green light at Belfast City Council’s planning committee.
The new purpose-built managed student accommodation – located on one of South Belfast’s main arterial routes – will see 156 studio rooms made available for students once building is completed.
Councillor Emmet McDonough-Brown said: “We are building Belfast. South Belfast is already a world-renowned learning hub, housing Queen’s University and providing direct links to the University of Ulster, with students contributing significantly to our local economy.
“It is fantastic to see our universities grow and thrive, but along with this comes the need for more student housing – an issue that can cause concern. We hope this model will alleviate those concerns.
“While the issue of anti-social behaviour was expressed by some local residents, both universities have already had great success in addressing these concerns.
“There is a significant difference between accommodation in the Holylands and this purpose built managed student accommodation, which will be overseen by on-site staff who can monitor the living environment and provide effective intervention if problems arise.
“This is a positive decision for South Belfast and will, I hope, help regenerate the Dublin Road and bring prosperity to the local area.”