Northern Irish contractor Graham has won a £286 million contract to redevelop student accommodation in Manchester, according to Belfast Telegraph.

The Hillsborough-based firm will create over 2,300 student bedrooms at Cambridge Halls for Manchester Metropolitan University.

Demolition of the current accommodation, built in the 1990s, has already commenced. Plans involve replacing existing structures with buildings reaching 30 storeys high designed by Cartwright Pickard Architects. The new halls will contain a mix of cluster apartments and studios, alongside internal and external amenities.

A community health centre and commercial space will be included on the ground floor, fronting Cambridge Street in the city. The first phase is scheduled for completion in 2029, with the second phase completing the following year.

Stephen Van den Hoek, regional director at Graham, said: "Cambridge Halls is a significant and complex regeneration project that will transform this part of the campus. We are proud to have been appointed to work with Manchester Metropolitan University and Unite Students to deliver high-quality, sustainable accommodation that supports student wellbeing and long-term performance."

Graham's financial results for the year ending March 31, 2025 showed strong profitability at its main limited company, John Graham Holdings. The firm reported a 6 per cent revenue decline to £1.06 billion, down from £1.12 billion the previous year. However, pre-tax profits jumped 71 per cent, rising from £14.8 million to £25.2 million.

The contract reinforces Graham's position in the UK student accommodation sector, delivering large-scale urban regeneration projects across multiple markets.

Access comprehensive project details in the complete article.