CityBlock rides crisis to deliver student development

Lancaster-based developer CityBlock has completed its latest development in the city despite its main contractor going into administration part way through.

The Penny Street accomodation now houses 70 students but the project was put in doubt when building contractor Titan folded.

But with the help of local suppliers and contractors, the development was completed in time for the influx of students this September.

And CityBlock Penny Street has since received ANUK approval, a national accreditation recognised by the National Union of Students, benchmarking building safety, standards and management, as well as being accredited by Lancaster University Homes.

Situated on Penny Street, in the centre of Lancaster, the development is CityBlock’s fourth development in the city, with the company also currently owning and managing other buildings in Reading and Durham. The property, which had previously been a carpet shop, car showroom, petrol station and snooker hall required significant redevelopment, so was demolished to make way for the new landmark. CityBlock also won ‘Best Moving in Experience’ in the 2017 National Student Housing Awards for the dedicated student support it provides. Representatives are on hand to help with issues students may have, from finance struggles to trying to locate the nearest bus stop.