GMI completes S Harrison York PBSA

Adding to the much-needed student accommodation in the city, Raffles Hall has 195 cluster apartments and 108 studios, housing 303 students.

GMI Construction started work on the project back in 2023, on behalf of York-based developer S Harrison.

Owned by Singapore-based investor SB PBSA, the development will be managed by Prestige Student Living brand Homes for Students, with the first students expected to move in at the end of summer.

Located on James Street, the scheme is split across three to five storeys, and has an external communal area, study areas, a games room, cinema, lounge, gym, laundry room, and a 2,000 sq ft south-facing public pocket park.

Andrew Wharton, project manager at S Harrison, said: “This is a transformational scheme for both James Street and Lawrence Street, which is a primary route into the city, that has seen a former industrial unit replaced with a striking and modern building that complements the local streetscape.

“It’s also within easy walking distance of York city centre and close to both the University of York and York St John University, which will make it popular with the city’s students who want to live in high-quality homes with first class amenities.”

Ed Weston, regional director at GMI Construction added: “This is a high quality and well-designed scheme in a popular location, which makes it a fantastic addition to the extensive portfolio of PBSA schemes that we have successfully delivered throughout the UK. It’s also been a pleasure to extend our relationship with S Harrison, after previously completing two other successful PBSA schemes for the company in York and Leeds.”