Greystar has appointed McAleer & Rushe as the main contractor for a new 836-bed Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) development in Selly Oak, Birmingham.

The £90 million scheme is being developed on behalf of Student Roost, one of the UK’s largest student accommodation providers. Construction is now underway, with the project set to deliver much-needed student housing alongside amenities designed to benefit the wider community.

Located on the site of a former Sainsbury's supermarket, the development will transform a long-disused brownfield plot into a vibrant residential-led neighbourhood. The plan includes 472 studios and 364 cluster bedrooms across two buildings. Additionally, the scheme will feature 26,000 sq ft of commercial space, including a community medical centre, 31 car parking spaces, and new landscaped public areas.


The project aligns with Student Roost's broader strategy to expand in high-demand university cities, with Birmingham currently one of the most undersupplied student housing markets in the UK.

Daniel Thompson, Managing Director – UK Development at Greystar, said: "Having delivered thousands of student beds across the UK, we understand what it takes to create a successful living environment for students and lasting value for cities. Selly Oak is a key location, and we're investing in its long-term future through a mix of housing, public realm, and essential services."

Darragh Greenan, Director at McAleer & Rushe, added: "We're proud to be delivering this transformative scheme in partnership with Greystar, which will not only bring much-needed, high-quality student accommodation to one of the UK's most undersupplied university cities, but also reinvigorate a long-derelict site in Selly Oak.

"By regenerating the high street frontage along Bristol Road, the development will create a more vibrant, accessible and welcoming environment for both students and the wider community. With a strong focus on sustainability and placemaking, this scheme sets a new standard for integrated, sustainable urban living, and we look forward to delivering it in a way that leaves a lasting, positive impact on the local area."