First phase of new ‘university village’ complete in St Andrews

Image supplied by the University of St Andrews

KINGDOM Initiatives and the University of St Andrews have marked the handover of 22 new affordable homes in the town as the first phase of a new ‘university village’ completes.

The project at The Grange is designed to offer affordable housing for post-graduate students and university staff, and help reduce accommodation pressures in the town.

When complete, the development will provide a mix of 61 houses and cottages flats for rent, with 14 of the properties identified as houses of multiple occupation. The University of St Andrews will sign occupancy agreements with customers, while Kingdom will manage and maintain the homes.

Kingdom Initiatives chair Mark Easton said, “I’m delighted to see the first homes handed over as part of the pioneering partnership between Kingdom Initiatives and the University of St Andrews. These homes highlight our joint commitment to enhancing the lives of postgraduate students and academics through thoughtfully designed, affordable housing. We look forward to the positive impact these homes will have on the university community and the wider community in St Andrews.”

Professor Tom Brown, University of St Andrews VP (research, collections and innovation), added, “The university recognises the importance of providing high-quality, affordable housing for those who come to study and work in St Andrews. This unique partnership with Kingdom Housing Association delivers both sustainable and affordable homes for postgraduate students and staff, and their families. The release of the first 22 homes could not be more timely given the cost-of-living and energy crisis and a shortage in supply of this type of accommodation.”

All the homes have been built to Building Control’s Silver Active standard of sustainability, and are fitted with solar panels. Hydrogen-ready boilers have also been installed.

“We are thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking partnership with the University of St Andrews,” said Tom Barclay, Kingdom Group chief executive. “This project is a brilliant example of how much can be achieved through close collaboration and it underlines our commitment to building innovative and sustainable communities.”

The initial handover lays the foundation for a further 39 homes which are due to complete in phases in winter 2023 and spring 2024.